What is FOCUS Greater Syracuse?
FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization in Onondaga County.
FOCUS has promoted civic engagement, participation, and education in the Central New York community for over 25 years. Through our programs and initiatives, citizens have been successfully connected with local government, organizations, and businesses, resulting in positive changes in our community.
FOCUS facilitates, educates, and celebrates citizen engagement!
FOCUS’ 25+ Year History
| “Forging Our Community’s United Strength” FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc. is a community-wide visioning program created with the goal of making Syracuse a better place to live and work. Initiated by a group of interested residents, the program was loosely based on visioning projects conducted in different parts of the country. The Visioning project aimed to determine a favorable direction for Syracuse’s growth and advancement. FOCUS’ Visioning program stands out from similar initiatives because the concepts were generated by the residents of Onondaga County, rather than those in positions of power. FOCUS asked citizens what their dreams were for the future of our community. 1998 Visioning Goals |
FOCUS’ Programs
| FOCUS Forums FOCUS holds public forums that are free of charge and cover various topics. These forums are presented by experts in fields such as education, environment, culture and the arts, recreation, business, health, and public service. Citizens Academy FOCUS presents an 11-week program for all who live or work in Onondaga County and are 18+ years old. Citizens Academy is a collaboration between the City of Syracuse, Onondaga County, and FOCUS to inform citizens about how local governments are organized and how services are funded and delivered. Wisdom Keeper Celebration FOCUS celebrates community members who demonstrate exceptional leadership, continuous care, and a clear vision for the future of CNY. Wisdom Keeper is FOCUS’ annual fundraiser. We are honored to recognize the outstanding contributions of remarkable individuals who positively impact our community. Research, Reports, & Initiatives FOCUS conducts research initiatives focusing on citizens and provides reports and recommendations based on our findings. Our reports are widely used by Onondaga County, Syracuse City, as well as other organizations, businesses, and individuals for future planning purposes. |
FOCUS’ Awards
Executive Director of the Year Award from the CNY Business Journal & BizEventz at the 2023 Nonprofit Awards.
The Rhea Eckel Clark Citizenship Award for FOCUS’ active role in promoting cooperation among citizens, agencies, & local elected officials. The CNY Regional & Development Planning Board recognized the hundreds of FOCUS volunteers who continually strive to make CNY a better place.
International University & Professional Continuing Education Association Award for creating the Citizens Academy.
National Purpose Prize Award from the Franklin Templeton Foundation, Atlantic Philanthropies, & Civic Ventures.
JCPenney Golden Rule Award for exceptional citizen engagement & volunteer service.
Syracuse Rotary Award for citizen engagement & volunteer service.
FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc. is an independent, 501(c)(3) organization that thrives with the support of our community. Your charitable contributions, grants, and sponsorships help us tap citizen creativity to bring about change in Central New York!
