What we do
NEXTGEN is the official family resource of Manatee County, featuring local events and good news around our community and is brought to you by the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, Inc (ELC). The educational and family resource magazine is distributed to the parents of 25,000 elementary school children in 47 Manatee County schools, with an additional 8,000 distributed to over 200 childcare facilities, libraries, medical offices, hospitals and other business offices throughout the county. Our new website features local events, community updates and interactive activities and games for children of all ages.
Latest Issue
Recent Issues
A Budget-Friendly Guide to the Gift of Experience and Education
When choosing an affordable gift for a child, you may be tempted to purchase the latest electronic gadget or media player—especially if they've been...
A Newborn Initiative…
Did you know that when you read to your child, even as an infant, you are essentially building their brain? There is a common misconception that...
100 Years in the Making!
The Bradenton Kiwanis Club is well-known around Manatee County for the many good projects they have done for our community. This year, the Club...
Stepping Up and Stepping In…
Just eight months after becoming the Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County following the sudden...
Born for the Role…
Determined to have a career in a professional field, Tom McDougal first became a hospital Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at just 27 years old...
Nothing Stopping Santa This Year!
Most people would be surprised to learn that Santa Claus lives in Bradenton, Florida, but chances are if you've attended Elementary school in Manatee County in the last 30 years, you've met Steve Hensell, or "Santa Steve," as he's better known...