First 5 Merced County

🎉 Congratulations to our 2026 Hands on Hero – Community Recipient Shaquita Hillegass!
This award recognizes an individual whose passion for serving others has created a positive impact on children and families throughout Merced County. Their dedication reminds us that strong communities begin with people who care.
💙 Stay connected with our social media as we continue introducing this year’s Hands on Hero recipients and counting down to the 2026 Children’s Summit.
Waitlist 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/igaBiGS4dryFAhxC9
Virtual 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/Afk7ZBovT4ZNEjDv9

✨7 DAYS TO GO!✨
The Children's Summit is just ONE WEEK away! Today's Exhibitor Spotlight is Philos Therapeutic, providing mental health, family, and skill-building support to children and families throughout Central Valley.💛
Be sure to stop by their table to learn more about t heir services, including play-based therapy and family support! Learn more at philostherapeutic.com or call (209) 259-3851
📅 September 17, 2026
Virtual 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/Afk7ZBovT4ZNEjDv9
Waitlist 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/igaBiGS4dryFAhxC9

🎉 Congratulations to our 2026 Hands on Hero – Inspiring Leader Ava Vera!
This award honors a leader who has inspired others through their vision, dedication, and commitment to improving the lives of young children and families. Their leadership continues to create meaningful change and strengthen our community.
💙 Stay connected with our social media as we continue introducing this year’s Hands on Hero recipients and counting down to the 2026 Children’s Summit.
Waitlist 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/igaBiGS4dryFAhxC9
Virtual 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/Afk7ZBovT4ZNEjDv9

Join us from wherever you are! 💻✨
Virtual registration for the 2026 Children Summit is still open - and you do not have to be a Merced County resident to attend! 🌎💜
📅 September 17, 2026
Virtual 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/Afk7ZBovT4ZNEjDv9
Waitlist 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/igaBiGS4dryFAhxC9

Another Exhibitor Spotlight! Today we showcase Aspiranet.🩵
Aspiranet proudly serves children, youth, and families throughout Merced County. Be sure to stop by their table at the Summit to connect with their team and learn more about the services and resources available to local families!

📅 September 17, 2026
Waitlist 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/igaBiGS4dryFAhxC9
Virtual 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/Afk7ZBovT4ZNEjDv9

Congratulations to our 2026 Hands on Hero – Business/Organization Recipient!
This award celebrates a business or organization whose commitment to children and families has strengthened our community. Through partnership, generosity, and service, they continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of young children.
💙 Stay connected with our social media as we continue introducing this year’s Hands on Hero recipients and counting down to the 2026 Children’s Summit.
Waitlist 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/igaBiGS4dryFAhxC9
Virtual 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/Afk7ZBovT4ZNEjDv9

First 5 Merced County is deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary Dolly Parton.🤍
Dolly’s legacy reaches far beyond her music. Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, she shared her love of reading with millions of children and families, helping put books into little hands and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.
We are incredibly grateful to be part of a program that carries forward her vision and her belief in the power of books to shape a child’s future.
Thank you, Dolly, for helping children dream more, learn more, and imagine more. 🤍

The Children’s Summit countdown continues! Today, we’re highlighting Project FoodBox, helping eligible Medi-Cal members access fresh fruits and vegetables delivered right to their door. 🥦🍎
Stop by their table at the 2026 Children’s Summit to learn more about the program, eligibility, and how to enroll!
📅 September 17, 2026
Waitlist 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/igaBiGS4dryFAhxC9
Virtual 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/Afk7ZBovT4ZNEjDv9

🎉 Congratulations to our 2026 Hands on Hero – Stewardship Recipient Sophia Ornelas!
Today we celebrate another outstanding Stewardship recipient whose dedication, service, and generosity continue to make a lasting impact on children and families in our community. Their commitment reminds us that even small acts of kindness can create lifelong change.
💙 Stay connected with our social media as we continue introducing this year’s Hands on Hero recipients and counting down to the 2026 Children’s Summit.
Waitlist 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/igaBiGS4dryFAhxC9
Virtual 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/Afk7ZBovT4ZNEjDv9

The Children’s Summit countdown continues!
Today, we’re highlighting the Gustine Traveling Library, bringing books, hands-on learning, and educational opportunities directly to children and families. 💛
Be sure to stop by their table at the 2026 Children’s Summit to learn more about their programs and resources!
📅 September 17, 2026
Waitlist 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/igaBiGS4dryFAhxC9
Virtual 26 CS Registration: https://forms.gle/Afk7ZBovT4ZNEjDv9