ELEANOR JOSAITIS, co founder of Focus HOPE, speaks to a gathering of supporters for the organization.
In 1968, Focus: HOPE began its journey of being not only a part of the community, but an organization that changed the community.

A 40-year celebration was recently held at Focus: HOPE headquarters. Attending the event were Eleanor Josaitis, co-founder of Focus: HOPE; Timothy Duperron, Focus: HOPE interim CEO; William F. Jones, COO of Chrysler Financial, chairman of the board of directors for Focus: HOPE; Gov. Jennifer Granholm; and board members.

“As we celebrate the successes of the past 40 years, we are also setting the stage for another 40 years of serving this community,” said Jones. “The leadership of this organization has worked diligently to develop a new strategic plan to transform the organization and identify new opportunities based on the belief that education is the most effective way to dismantle barriers and uncap the tremendous potential of so many of our citizens. To that end, we are looking to improve their lives.”

Josaitis said the challenges over the years were many, including a firebombing of its offices; the death of Father William T. Cunningham, co-founder of Focus: HOPE; and a tornado that caused $18 million in damages to the campus.

“Through it all, we have maintained the same mission and commitment to making a real difference in our community,” she said. “We’ve returned the trust you placed in us. I can’t tell you how grateful I am.”

Granholm, who sat next to Josaitis, and often warmly held her hand, applauded the work of the organization.

“For 40 years she has made this a reality,” said Granholm. “You chose to stay with it. It makes me so proud as governor that this organization exists. I wish we could say we’ve gotten over racism, over division, (but) the most pragmatic action we can take is providing opportunity for all. Education is the great ‘leveler.’ What Focus: HOPE is doing is giving freedom of choice. Thank you for that selfless act. It’s a privilege to be here.”

Rep. Morris Hood III (D-Detroit) cited Focus: HOPE’s willingness to work with the underprivileged.

“This institution should be a model for the way we should do things in the world today,” said Hood.

Focus: HOPE graduate William Motts II, the son of a drug dealer who followed in his father’s footsteps until an opportunity to study at Focus: HOPE changed his life, said he didn’t know where he be without the organization. Today he has a bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering and is pursuing a second master’s degree.

“I didn’t grow up with a silver spoon,” he said. “When I walked out of the doors of Focus: HOPE, they focused on what I became. It can offer a means to a better life. I’m proof of that.”

Duperron estimates that Focus: HOPE graduates have pumped more than $1 billion into the economy.

“We continuously update our education programs so that our programs are relevant and employers want our graduates,” he said. “I’m proud to be part of this leadership. Our future is very bright and our commitment is stronger than ever.”

For more information, visit www.focushope.edu.