BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Denise Donato-McConnell
PRESIDENT
Pat Robitaille
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Carol Dobi
TREASURER
Carla Bacon
VP-MEMBERSHIP
Therese Pallares
VP – FUNDRAISING
Lisa Alves
VP – CAUSE DEVELOPMENT
Sharyn Blongiewicz
VP-PROJECTS
Juliane Morris
VP – MARKETING/COMMUNICATIONS

WHO WE ARE

FOCUS is an all volunteer charity organization of diverse men and women of San Diego County. Our one goal: Improving the lives of children and teens in need. Through partnership with established children’s charities, we raise funds for the comfort…
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Our Mission

We raise funds for charitable purposes for the comfort and betterment of battered, abused, homeless, disabled, disadvantaged, military and foster children within San Diego County.

 

We Raise Money

From fundraisers, yearly membership dues, special events and contributions from corporations, members and concerned individuals.

 

We Help

By giving needed items to San Diego County disadvantaged, disabled and military children either directly or through accredited organizations that support them.

OUR HISTORY

The Friends of Children United Society (FOCUS) traces its origins to early 1982 in Coronado, California. A national organization known as WAIF (founded by actress Jane Russell) served as a source of inspiration to a group of dedicated and highly motivated women in the Coronado Cays to found FOCUS. From WAIF to FOCUS reflects a number of changes and associations with organizations like The Travelers’ Aid Society and Friends of Travelers before becoming the locally well-known and highly respected organization now known as FOCUS. The FOCUS name was created by Bobbe Cetti and the original logo was designed by Ruth Friedman.

The motivation and drive of the women involved in creating FOCUS was centered on improving the quality of life for needy and abused children in San Diego County. This commitment and the pressing needs of children continued and FOCUS evolved to meet the ever-growing challenge. In 2009, FOCUS became more inclusive with the invitation to men to join our membership. Advances in technology required FOCUS to adapt and enhanced communication methods with the establishment of a website and Facebook link. The additional association with Amazon Smile provided a means of funding and membership involvement.

Through increased membership, the success of major fundraisers and countywide recognition, FOCUS has broadened its scope with fulfillment of larger requests, year round grants, vehicle purchases and the more critical, urgent needs of our charity partners. Because of our members and all who have contributed their expertise, finances, and services to the organization, FOCUS continues the original mission to assist the needy children of San Diego County today.

JOIN US

Join us and be a part of making a difference in the lives of so many young children and teens.