Sideways Sunlight & Kids First Merger

Together, Kids First and Sideways Sunlight Ministries envision a stronger, more sustainable ministry serving children and families across Athens through consistent relationships, holistic support, and the transformative love of Christ.

Kids First Website

Our Why

We believe every child deserves to be known, loved, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.

For years, Kids First and Sideways Sunlight Ministries have walked alongside children and families in Athens, meeting practical needs while building relationships rooted in the love of Christ. This merger allows us to carry that mission forward with greater strength, reach, and sustainability.

We are coming together not simply to become one organization, but to create greater opportunity for children to flourish.

Course 01

Greater Impact

Learn how to communicate with clarity, confidence, and purpose. This course explores active listening, tone, body language, and message delivery for stronger, more impactful connections.

Course 02

Stronger Sustainability

Learn tools for organizing ideas, setting goals, and building consistent schedules. From brainstorming to publishing, this course helps turn scattered thoughts into a cohesive plan.

Course 03

One Mission

Discover how to analyze workflows, identify inefficiencies, and implement smarter systems. This course helps you create processes that actually work, for a team or just for yourself.

From Our Founder,

“When I founded Sideways Sunlight Ministries, I dreamed of creating a ministry where children and families would know they are deeply loved, seen, and worthy of investment. What began as a small ministry has grown into a community that has taught me so much about faith, perseverance, and the power of simply showing up.

As we enter this next chapter, I am filled with gratitude and hope. Merging with Kids First was not a decision made lightly, but it is one rooted in a deep belief that the children we serve deserve a ministry equipped to walk alongside them for years to come.

I am incredibly proud of what Sideways Sunlight has become and grateful for everyone who has helped make it possible. While my leadership chapter is changing, the mission continues. I am excited to see how God will use this merger to build upon what He has already begun and create an even stronger future for the children and families we love.”

- KJ Bentley

Meet Kids First

  • Since 2005, Kids First has served children in two Athens, GA, housing neighborhoods by providing meals, biblically based lessons, games, and meaningful relationships. Our mission is to meet the needs of the whole child while reflecting the love of Christ.

  • Kids First provides holistic support to children and families through consistent mentors, family groceries, shared meals, and opportunities for mothers to connect through Bible study. Our ministry also extends internationally through our sister ministry, Starfish Jamaica, which serves children in Jamaica.

  • Kids First provides tutoring using research-based curriculum to help children grow academically while receiving consistent encouragement and support. Through tutoring and mentoring, we seek to equip children with the tools and relationships they need to thrive.

Your Questions, Answered

  • Membership typically includes access to our full library of digital content—videos, courses, resources, and any new material we release while you're subscribed.

  • Definitely. You can switch plans, upgrade, or make changes to your membership anytime.

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