Futures First

What can soccer teach young children? More than you might think.

Taking turns. Showing kindness. Working together. Celebrating others. Handling big emotions when things don't go our way.

These are skills children can practice every day, whether they're on a field, in a classroom, or at home.

Explore our World Cup Learning Packet for simple ways to turn everyday moments into learning opportunities: https://bit.ly/3SheUpk

Are you looking for child care in Kansas? Contact Child Care Aware of Kansas for a list of licensed child care providers in your Kansas county!

Strong futures begin with strong investments in children.

There are decisions being made right now that will help shape opportunities for young children and families for years to come.

Join us in advocating for programs, resources, and support systems that will help children thrive.

Because putting futures first starts now.

Take action: https://futuresfirstkc.org/early-education-and-child-care-funding-2026/

The World Cup is more than a game. ⚽🌎

It's an opportunity to help children learn about teamwork, belonging, and the unique strengths every person brings to their community.

Try this at home or in your classroom: Ask children what makes them a good teammate. Listening? Sharing? Encouraging others?

Big lessons often start with simple conversations.

Explore more ideas in our free World Cup Learning Packet. https://bit.ly/3SheUpk

Strong communities are built through strong partnerships. 💙

A heartfelt thank you to The Church of the Resurrection for investing in children and families across our community.

This investment will strengthen child care across our community by helping new providers open high-quality programs and giving educators the support they need to help children thrive.

We're grateful for partners who believe in the power of early childhood and the lasting impact of investing in young lives.

Play. Connect. Grow together. 🩵

Our Connection Camp helps families build stronger relationships with young children through guided play, shared experiences, and practical tools you can use every day.

Join us for fun, connection, and meaningful moments that support your child’s growth and emotional well-being.

📍 Jackson & Clay County sessions available
🗓️ Register today: https://bit.ly/4or4Bev

After 25 years of dedicated service, we're celebrating Cheryl Gross as she begins her well-earned retirement.

Over the past quarter century, Cheryl has been a steady presence through three organization names, countless milestones, and generations of leadership that helped shape our mission. She worked closely with three CEOs, 12 board chairs, and nearly 100 board members, building trusted relationships and serving as a vital link between our board and organization.

While these numbers tell part of the story, they can't fully capture Cheryl's commitment, professionalism, and care. Behind every meeting, event, and transition was someone making sure things ran smoothly, preserving institutional knowledge, and helping our organization move forward. For many of us, Cheryl was also our unofficial historian — the person who could recall the stories behind important decisions, milestones, and moments from years past.

Thank you, Cheryl, for 25 years of service to Futures First and the children, families, educators, and communities we serve. Your dedication has left a lasting mark on our organization, and you will be greatly missed.

Please join us in congratulating Cheryl and wishing her all the best in retirement! 💙

Congratulations, Hannah and Ariana! 🎓

We're proud to celebrate two Project Eagle Educare teachers who recently graduated from KCKCC with their Associate's Degrees in Early Childhood Education.

Their achievement reflects dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to helping young children thrive. Through scholarship support from Futures First, they continued investing in their growth while making a difference for children and families every day.

Congratulations, grads! Your hard work is helping build stronger classrooms, stronger relationships, and stronger futures for children. 🩵

Please join us in celebrating Jenny Brandt in her new role as senior director of early learning and care at Futures First.

For more than 20 years, Jenny has championed the educators and caregivers who nurture young lives across our region. In her new role, she'll help strengthen connections among educators, families, caregivers, and community partners to ensure children have the support, relationships, and resources they need to flourish.

We're grateful for Jenny's leadership and excited for the impact she'll continue to make across Kansas City. Join us in celebrating her in the comments!