March Fast Company Article by Carol Thesing Hope is a Weapon by Curtis Sittenfeld, Feb/Mar, pages 179-184.

This article is about the power of hope. It tells how Eleanor Josaitis, a cofounder of Focus:Hope, a non-profit organization thats primary service is feeding infants and poor woman. Josaitis and William Cunningham decided to run their organization like a well defined, sophisticated business. Josaitis attributes the success of Focus: Hope to this.

Starting out in a basement, Focus: Hope has after 30 years developed into a 40 acre campus with an annual budget of $72 million. Focus: Hope uses three principles to govern the approach to social change. They are think big, demand results, and invite people to help.

Josaitis explains that they train to fit into the highest ranks of technology, to have the education and skill to meet or exceed the demand. In one area of training, the Machine Training Institute (MTI), students completing both phases enjoy 100% job placement.

If the rigors of MTI are too intense, participants have the option to enroll themselves in on or both of the readiness programs provided. They are Fast Track, which started in 1989 and First Step starting in 1997.

Once a student has selected to enroll, they are held to very stringent performance standards. These class teach communication skills, computer skills, reading, math, as well as how to be a good employee. But Josaitis will be the first to tell you, Were not in the business of rehabilitation. Were in the business of giving people opportunities.

Focus: Hope has come under attach for what is labeled as unforgiving standards. Josaitis argues for high expectations but she also challenges people and respect their dignity.

I tend to agree with Eleanor Josaitis. I believe people need to be held accountable in all aspects of life so that becomes the norm. If this can happen, then people wont think twice about being accountable for themselves. It will come natural. I also believe this type of self worth and respect one feel for oneself rubs off on others around you, just as the negative does.

Josaitis explains that social change doesnt come without a price. They have battled lawsuits, problems with racial integration and at times feared for their families. But still Josaitis says the battles are worth it. The social changes she has seen, the impact on participants and the 60,000+ people that visit the organization each year make it all worthwhile.

As I stated in the article, I strongly feel accountability is very important. As a teacher and a parent, I feel we allow too many chances and excuses for inappropriate behavior. Another technique adults use is ignoring the behavior, thinking it will go away. It doesnt. Acceptance of poor behavior is becoming the norm. Then when young people get in the work force, they have a difficulty handling their job responsibilities or a difficulty in getting along with people.

When talking with others, I found that this is not only a young person problem. Many people said they see lack of responsibility in there work place. Everyone found it frustrating. The interesting thing I found was the vast differences in what people felt was responsible behavior. Making deadlines was a key issue for some and not a problem for others. Working overtime was seen as irresponsible by some and responsible to other. After talking with others, I became more confused. I found this black and white issue was very gray. I still believe when people are responsible, there is more hope and a more positive outlook on life. The problem is I am now not sure I know how to define responsibility. Maybe that is where we need to begin, like Mrs. Josaitis says with clear concise expectations.

-- Anonymous, April 07, 1999