Ministry Profile: Focus: HOPE

One of the most successful job programs I have ever seen is based in Detroit out of non-profit ministry called Focus: HOPE. Co-founded in 1968 by Father Cunningham and Eleanor Josaitis, Focus: HOPE pledged to the following vision:

"Recognizing the dignity and beauty of every person, we pledge intelligent and practical action to overcome racism, poverty and injustice. And to build a metropolitan community where all people may live in freedom, harmony, trust and affection. Black and white, yellow, brown and red from Detroit and its suburbs of every economic status, national origin and religious persuasion we join in this covenant."

The 1967 riot left metropolitan Detroit sharply divided along racial lines. By early 1968, shock had deepened into bitterness and hostility. New words described the new reality: polarization, white backlash, black militancy, flight. It was in this atmosphere that the Focus: HOPE co-founders felt compelled to make a difference. They wrote a mission statement and inspired a movement. The material resources available to them were minimal. But the human resources - extraordinary people from all walks of life with a dedication to the ideal of brotherhood, with courage and determination to endure - proved abundant. Focus: HOPE was born, and remains, a movement of minds, hearts, and wills committed to "intelligent and practical action to overcome racism, poverty and injustice."

I first met Eleanor when she was a guest speaker at Willow Creek’s Leadership Summit in 2005. I had the privilege of hosting her for the weekend and her passion, drive, and unwavering desire to see those who are hurting find hope and relief was awe inspiring. I don’t think that anyone who encounters Eleanor will ever be the same after meeting her. She is full of spunk and challenge and has poured herself into life and ministry in the city of Detroit. Focus: HOPE now has nearly 350 colleagues and is supported by 51,000 volunteers and donors. The ministry partners with the automotive industry in Detroit and helps assure job placements for graduates who complete their Fast Track, Machinist Training Institute, Center for Advanced Technologies, and Information Technologies Center programs. Board members consist of some of the top business leaders in the community including the COO of Chrysler Financial, a retired president of Ford Motor Company, and a Vice President from General Motors North America. Focus: HOPE offers comprehensive and holistic support for under-resourced individuals, families, and communities. The ministry addresses responding to people’s immediate needs by offering compassion through their food distribution programs, their daycare and child support initiatives; development through job training and skills improvement; and social justice by working to change the institutionalized systems. For more information visit: http://www.focushope.edu/.