ABOUT FIRST

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Motto: ‘Making life better for children and women’

First Step Action for Children Initiative (FIRST) is a child focused organization registered with the Cooperate Affairs Commission with the headquarters in Makurdi, Benue state Nigeria. The organization has functional offices in Adamawa, Benue and Nasarawa states in Nigeria. The offices are being coordinated by the functional secretariat in Makurdi Benue state headed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the program management team.

FIRST Step Action for Children Initiative (FIRST) was founded in 1998 as a community based organization called First Step Foundation Association (FSFA). The organization worked on several projects within the state expanding its scope across many Local Government Areas, and in February 2002 it became registered with the state Ministry of Women Affairs as an NGO. The association was established with a keen desire to assist rural families to improve the quality of lives of their children. Realizing that, young children have very close ties with their mothers in Nigeria, it became expedient to include women on the programs of the association. From the successes recorded, the Board of the organization was encouraged to apply for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja. On December 19, 2008 the association was formerly registered by the Commission and had its name changed to the present First Step Action for Children.

Vision

FIRST envisions a society where children develop according to their full potentials.

Mission

FIRST STEP is committed to ensuring the holistic development of children and women towards accessing their rights and have the best possible prospects for survival.

VALUES

  • Accountability: We believe in being accountable, responsive, and transparent to all that we serve and those who support us.
  • Continuous learning: learning is central to our work. We continually review, refine, adapt our methods and our thinking to make sure our work is sustainable, innovative relevant and effective.
  • Team work: Leveraging on each other’s skills and strengths.
  • Empathy: We believe in listening, sharing emotions with staff and people we serve to support them to thrive.
  • Respect: Respect for each other and the diversity we have in our team.
  • Hard work: We believe that we should focus on doing our work well and seriously.
  • Inclusion: First step is required to provide equal opportunities and resources to all we serve especially for people who might otherwise excluded and marginalize.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

FIRST STEP operates under a two-tier governance structure

FIRST STEP operates under a two-tier governance structure, consisting of a five (5) Member Board of trustees and a seven (7) man management team. The board members are made up of professionals from relevant fields including health, education, administrative and finance. The Trustees provide strategic planning and policy guidance, while the management implements programs and projects on behalf of the organization. The states offices have team leads/ project managers that coordinate its activities with dedicated staff and volunteers. Headquarters is headed by CEO and supported by program management team. The strategies and activities of FIRST STEP are also guided by its Constitution, its Articles of Association, its internal policies, the Nigerian National Law, and a three-year Strategic Plan.

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Some Feedbacks

Aisha Suleiman

I've witnessed firsthand the transformative impact this organization brings to vulnerable communities. Their commitment to empowering women and children is commendable.

Tyeng Bulus

As a donor, I'm proud to support an organization that advocates for the rights of children and women. Their initiatives are making a genuine difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Hafsat Adamu

I've been volunteering with this incredible group for years. Their dedication to providing education, healthcare, and support to women and children is inspiring. I'm honored to be part of their mission.

Yusuf M. Abdulrahman

The work this organization does is exceptional. They focus not only on immediate needs but also on long-term solutions, ensuring a brighter future for women and children in underserved communities.

Chigozie Everest E.

I've seen the positive outcomes resulting from their programs. It's heartening to know that my contributions are creating meaningful change and opportunities for a better life for these deserving individuals.

To promote the recognition and acceptance of the rights of women and children and ensure that children have the best possible prospects for survival, growth, development, protection and participation.

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