We know there are so many great causes to support, but where can you find an organization that produces an astonishing $131 return for kids for every dollar donated?

Children First is improving kids’ lives by enacting state and local reforms and securing massive new investments in schools and other services.

We don’t do this work alone. It requires thousands of advocates who give of their time and talent to fight for children’s lives.

Maritza Guridy was held up at gunpoint when two young men stole her car. The obvious response from a crime victim is to demand her attackers be locked up. Maritza sees it differently. She shares our conviction for adopting better policies that interrupt the ineffective practices of the justice system that are inherently unfair to Black boys.|

An outspoken member of our Parents Empowered for Change program, Maritza learned how to amplify her voice and hone her own advocacy skills to reform the juvenile justice system. As an active leader in our Kids Campaign, she told mayor-elect Parker:

“There’s a real opportunity here to rethink the juvenile justice system. Kids sometimes make mistakes and mistakes are just that. They should be held accountable and should have the opportunity to learn from that so they can do better…The current system is sending the wrong message and it’s not setting them on the right path…We need to make sure kids can, as much as possible, get resources in their communities and stay in school where they can continue their education.”

We strive every day to better kids’ lives through relentless, smart advocacy and action. We believe that the intractable problems that harm children – though challenging – are solvable.

Your support of Children First empowers citizens like Maritza to demand change. Your donation will give us the resources we need so that thousands of others we engage with can increase their influence and show policymakers that they must meet the urgent needs of children, now.

Thank you in advance for your generous support and for your consideration this year. You can donate online at www.childrenfirstpa.org/donate. Thank you for your support.