Bay Area Toddler Advances to Quarterfinals in National “Toddler of the Year” Contest

The Bay Area’s Own Ruth Whitmire Reaches Quarterfinals in National Toddler of the Year Competition.

September 2, 2025 — Two-year-old Ruth Whitmire from Sarasota/Bradenton has advanced to the quarterfinals in Colossal’s Toddler of the Year competition, a nationwide contest benefiting Toys for Tots. The competition highlights toddlers from across the country while raising funds to ensure every child has the joy of a holiday gift.

Ruth is known for her bright spirit, boundless curiosity, and her unique way of seeing the world. Her family entered her into the contest not only to celebrate her story, but also to support Toys for Tots’ mission of bring hope to children everywhere. Ruth has quickly captured hearts both locally and beyond. Her family hopes her story inspires others while also showing how the competition makes a real difference for families.

Her mother, Elisabeth Whitmire, CEO and Director of Legal Services for the local nonprofit Post Conviction Project, says the competition reflects values she lives every day: “In my work, I see firsthand how important it is to give back to the community and lift up voices that aren’t always heard. Ruth reminds us that every child’s perspective is valuable and her journey highlights the importance of normalizing neurodivergence. Winning would not only celebrate Ruth’s individuality but also help with the realities of raising a toddler, like child care, while allowing us to invest in her future.”

Voting for the semi-final round is open now, and the competition continues through September 28, 2025. Supporters can cast their votes daily at https://toddleroftheyear.org/2025/ruth-afc6.