First Up, the Prime Resource for Early Childhood Education in the Philadelphia Region, is Presented the Champion Award from KenCrest

Philadelphia, PA (September 19, 2025) – On September 10, Kencrest held its Community Champions event to give thanks to individuals, organizations and community partners who go above and beyond to support Kencrest’s vital work. Chip Riddleberger, Director of Government Relations and Advocacy for Kencrest, nominated First Up for a Champion Award. A partner with Kencrest for three years, First Up is an early learning champion in the Philadelphia area with a goal that ensures every child from birth to age eight has access to the highest quality care and education. He said, “First Up identifies opportunities to leverage and ultimately increase quality education programs in the early learning advocacy space for birth to age eight. They are staunch supporters of more competitive teacher pay and educating both legislators and the business community on viewing childcare challenges through the business lens.