ROCHELLE — Focus House will celebrate its 50th anniversary at an event at Luna on November 14th.
Brenda Mason, Focus House Director said the organization has made a true difference in northern Illinois.
“ We are a last stop shop right before juvenile prison. So if you can keep a kid out of the juvenile prison system, I think that in itself makes such a huge impact for their family, for that kid and for the community,” she said. “Roughly around 2000 kids served over 50 years. So a huge impact.”
The celebration will be open to the public starting at 4:30. A proclamation was made at the Ogle County Board meeting on October 21st celebrating the 50 years of positive impact the organization has had in the region.
“Definitely a great time or d’oeuvres and really great speakers and past staff and students who are excited to share the focus house,” said Erica Holloway, Community Outreach with Focus House.
The Ogle County facility offers education, counseling, alternative programming, and public service opportunities to help youths transition back to their homes. Focus House also provides alternative suspension and expulsion services, outpatient treatment for youths on probation, and works with students at the Chana Education Center.