Children First Named as Top Workplace in Sarasota-Manatee

November 18, 2022 – Sarasota

Children First, Inc. has, for the fourth consecutive year, been recognized as a top employer in the Sarasota-Manatee Top Workplaces competition.

The award is sponsored by Energage and the Sarasota-Herald Tribune and recognizes those organizations that demonstrate workplace excellence and are known for recruiting and retaining the best and brightest employees.

The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by Energage.

“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes directly from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, CEO of Energage. “In today’s market, leaders must ensure they are allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”

“This award is so meaningful because it reflects our employees’ deep commitment to the mission of Children First,” said CEO Philip Tavill. “Even during what has been a tumultuous time, our staff have remained focused on providing the best possible learning environment for our young children. Together, we have created a wonderful and rewarding place for our employees to come to work, and the best possible place for our children and their families to learn. We are seeking our future Children First superstars to come and join us as a Top Workplace!”

With 4,126 employees participating across three award categories, Children First was one of only 22 organizations to be named as a Top Workplace in Sarasota-Manatee. CEO Philip Tavill also earned a special award for his leadership.

Children First also received a national award through Top Workplaces USA for Culture Excellence in Professional Development, a special recognition for companies who focus on developing their employees’ careers and enabling their people to grow professionally.

The Children First mission is to strengthen children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being. Children First offers full-day preschool, infant and toddler care, and nutrition and health care assistance to children ages birth to 5 years old, from low-income families. It holds the distinction of being a four-time designated Head Start “Program of Excellence” and is ranked in the top 1 percent out of more than 1,800 Head Starts nationwide.