I have been volunteering with FOCUS since I was teenager when I was introduced to the organization through a volunteer group called National Charity League. I signed up for Camp Hollywood having no idea what to expect and ended the week gushing with excitement of how incredible the campers were and how rewarding it was to be a part of. To say I was hooked would be an understatement. I came back every year I possibly could and then applied to be a FOCUS summer intern in college. That summer as an intern leading silly science experiments or groups of fun-loving campers was one of my favorites I've ever had.

I graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in nursing. I knew a lot of FOCUS programming required a nurse, so I was excited to be able to use my newfound skills to help out where I could. From Saturday Respites to Camp Infinity, I found so much joy myself in being able to put a smile on someone's face. There's nothing quite like the cheers of watching a camper finish climbing the rock wall or a standing ovation at the talent show. In addition to camp, I also enjoy helping out FOCUS in whatever way I can whether it's doing hospital visits, filling in as FOCUS ambassador, or participating in some of the many events FOCUS delivers. My heart belongs to FOCUS and the wonderful families that it serves. My life has been forever changed because of this organization and the people that I have met along the way.