I have had the great privilege to serve on the team at the Jacksonville Children's Commission since August 2003.  I have been amazed to learn about the wealth of information and services offered by the Commission, and by the outstanding programs we are helping to fund through hundreds of non-profits and private businesses who share the vision of helping Jacksonville grow great kids.

The Jacksonville Children's Commission is truly a unique organization reflecting the special commitment our city has made to children. Through financial support from the City of Jacksonville, Ready Child Coalition, Healthy Families Florida and many other sources, we are able to offer a full-range of supports for families with children from newborns to teenagers.

Our philosophy for growing great kids is the same as any parent's who wants the best for their children: to help them get off to a great start in life, and to continue supporting them to be successful at every stage of their development. Our annual report details this philosophy, the programs we fund to put it into place, and the results that have been achieved.

This is a singular moment in Jacksonville. Due to the vision and leadership of our Mayor John Peyton to make early literacy one of his six guiding principles, we have the opportunity for the entire community be involved in transforming our culture to one that holds early literacy as a core value. By focusing on improving the quality of early education, our children will be more likely to achieve in school and go on to lead productive lives.

Thank you for your interest in the Jacksonville Children's Commission, and the many partners that are helping to grow great kids every day.

Sincerely,

Linda M. Lanier
CEO, Jacksonville Children's Commission