Focus: HOPE is a nonprofit civil and human rights organization serving Metro Detroit whose mission is to pursue "intelligent and practical action to overcome racism, poverty, and injustice." It was formed by a diverse group of volunteers in the wake of the 1967 civil unrest in Detroit. Today it offers a food program that feeds 43,000 mothers, pregnant women, children, and senior citizens each month; education and job-training programs in information technologies, engineering, machining, and energy efficiency that lead to certifications and degrees; youth development through the arts; early childcare and preschool; community and economic development; and more.
Even in better economic times, nonprofits must constantly innovate to meet the needs of their clients and keep pace with an ever-evolving society while finding more efficient and ways to do so. My job is to identify, research, and pursue government and foundation funding opportunities that align with our mission and programming. I also steward relationships with legislators, governmental bodies, other nonprofits, the education and workforce development communities, and others. I've worked at Focus: HOPE for three years where I have had opportunities that I never imagined. One of my favorite things about working in the nonprofit sector is that organizations that do good work attract dedicated, creative, and diverse people to work for them, making work - however hectic it may get sometimes - fun, as well.
| Job Title: |
Advancement Specialist |
| Company: |
Focus: HOPE |
| College: |
Michigan State University, Master of Arts, Public Relations, East Lansing, MI
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| High School: |
Stevenson High School, Livonia, MI
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