FOCUS was started in the early 70's by a group of community leaders who had a vision of empowering women. These women started a tradition of professionalism and volunteerism that continues to this day. FOCUS continues to plant the seeds for girls and women to grow and succeed in life and in their careers. Download the FOCUS brochure.

Our Vision
Our vision is a community in which every woman achieves her full potential.

Our Mission
FOCUS is a private, 501(c)(3) non-profit agency serving the needs of women and families. The mission of FOCUS is to be a community for any woman seeking help or growth. We promote awareness through information and education.

Our Board
Our Board of Directors are:
Albie LaFave - President
Elizabeth Smiley - Vice-President
Susan Crowder - Secretary
Sue Lewis - Treasurer
Pearl Early - Board Member
Millie Fife - Board Member
Jodi Lefebvre - Board Member
Hobby Parent - Board Member
Rhonda Rogers - Board Member

Our Staff
FOCUS has a professional staff who provide teen programs, counseling, career services, and program support.
Quaneilia "Shay" Carter - Youth Programs Assistant - ext. 20 - scarter@focuscville.org
Robin Eliason, Ph.D. - Director of Counseling and Career Services - ext. 27 - reliason@focuscville.org
Chapin Faulconer, M.Ed., NCC, LPC - Counselor - ext. 16 - chapinrf@gmail.com
Delores Martin - Front Desk/Receptionist - dmartin@focuscville.org
Cindy Miller, M.Ed., LPC - Counselor - ext. 19 - cmmiller@focuscville.org
Minok Oh - International Visiting Scholar- ext. 23 - minokoh@focuscville.org
Jennie Shuklis, MBA - Director of Finance and Operations - ext. 18 - jshuklis@focuscville.org
Ann Smith, M.Ed. - Resource Mothers - ext. 24 - ajsmith@focuscville.org
Brooks Thorn, Flea Clerk
Rosemary Summers, Flea Clerk

Our History
In 1972, after years of holding discussion groups in participants, homes, FOCUS Women's Resource Center opened in a room donated by Westminster Presbyterian Church on Rugby Road. The founders chose "FOCUS" as the name of the new organization to signify its mission enabling women to focus on their considerable talents and abilities.

In the beginning FOCUS concentrated on three program areas: education, counseling, and employment opportunities. The operating philosophy, then as now, was an affirmation of the worth and abilities of women and a dedication to serving all women, without regard for age, race, or other personal circumstances.

In 1974 FOCUS became a 501 (3) non-profit agency and hired part-time staff. By 1978, private and grant funding had increased and FOCUS employed its first full-time executive director, Lila Lassetter.

FOCUS became a United Way agency in 1980. Throughout its history, FOCUS has responded to the changing needs and circumstances of women and their families. FOCUS nurtured Shelter for Help in Emergency (SHE) and Sexual Assault Resource Agency (SARA), which are now independent non-profits. In 1988, FOCUS established TEENSIGHT to address the issue of teen pregnancy and parenting, and it remains a vital part of FOCUS today. FOCUS has endured because of the strength of its mission and the large cadre of volunteers who support the organization with the gifts of their time, efforts, and financial resources.

Hours and Winter Weather
Our normal hours are 8:30 to 4:30, Monday through Friday. In case of inclement weather, FOCUS follows the Charlottesville city school schedule.