2026 Champion for Children

On the evening of Friday, May 1, 2026, Children First will celebrate the extraordinary life and times of our retiring Executive Director Donna Cooper and honor her as the 2026 Champion for Children. Donna has led Children First for the last 12 years, transforming us into one of the preeminent child advocacy organizations in Pennsylvania. Having spent eight years in city government in Philadelphia, another eight years in state government in Harrisburg, and countless years fighting for improved public policies for children and families across the state, Donna’s impact is undeniable.