2026 Broward Advocates for Children Awards
Please join us as we recognize Broward’s outstanding advocates for children.
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Bills Supported or Passed that Support Children
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Hours of Youth Advocacy & Training to Improve Outcomes for Youth
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People Trained on Critical Child Welfare Issues
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+ Florida Youth SHINE Chapter Members
About Us
Our Mission: Florida’s Children First is a non-profit, nonpartisan, independent advocacy organization committed to protecting and advancing the rights of children and youth impacted by the child welfare, juvenile justice, and disability systems through systemic reform, education, youth voice, and promoting high-quality legal representation.
Our Vision: Florida’s laws, policies, and practices respect, prioritize, and protect children and youth impacted by the child welfare, juvenile justice, and disability systems.
Florida Youth SHINE
We believe the children in Florida’s systems of care are powerful change agents and advocates for their own future.
Florida Youth SHINE is a dynamic affinity group supported by Florida’s Children First, where youth lead with lived experience to shape a brighter future for themselves and future generations if given the right tools.
Our Approach
We believe in transformative change. Through relentless advocacy, enlightening education, amplifying youth voices, and unwavering legal advocacy, we are shaping a brighter future for our children. Dive into our dedicated programs and discover how we’re pioneering systemic reform.
Help Us Improve the Lives of Children: Utilize Our Resources for Children's Rights.
At Florida’s Children First, we stand as fierce advocates for children’s rights, working tirelessly to amplify their voices, prioritize their needs, and implement necessary changes, advancing laws, practices, and policies to create a society where every child feels safe and loved, and thrives!
To further this mission, we’ve created a collection of resources, ranging from advocacy tools and educational materials to legal support and expert guidance. Together, we pave the way for a brighter, more nurturing world for our children.
Upcoming Events
Check back to get details on all our upcoming events and save the date and join a dynamic community of like-minded individuals who believe in the power of children. We can’t wait to see you there!
2025 – 2026 Florida’s Children First Training Series
A 90-minute training series on the 3rd Wednesday of September 2025 through March 2026 covering issues that affect youth in care…
Latest News from Florida’s Children First
Stay in the know about the remarkable strides we’re making in championing children’s rights.
Florida Youth SHINE marks 20 years with White House visit, new housing bill
Florida Youth SHINE is the organization whose members are youth who grew up in foster care and are dedicated to improving the lives of those who are also in the system. This year, as they celebrate 20 years of advocacy, they had a recent appearance in the White House for the signing…
Former foster child leads advocacy group to support Florida youth in care
Serenity Miller was in foster care as a baby and was adopted by a wonderful, loving family. She is now a leader with Florida Youth SHINE, a group that advocates for others in the foster care system so they can receive support, including to continue and to complete their education…
Learn More About Our Work
Curious about how our work helps children? Watch our video below.
