FOCUS FORWARD...

Greetings from all of us here at FOCUS St. Louis!

As leaders, all of us carry a special responsibility to rise to the challenge of these difficult times.

Our team’s dedication to providing the region’s premier leadership training and to convening important community conversations is unwavering. But, like many of you, we are approaching our work in new ways.

While all in-person events and programs are paused at this time, I invite you to check out our new lineup of virtual conversations kicking off this week. The schedule includes regular online meetups for program alumni to connect, reflect and share ideas, as well as weekly leadership webinars. All events are offered at no cost as a way to bridge the gap during this time of social distancing.

Visit www.focus-stl.org and click on Events to learn more.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to share a few leadership thoughts.

First, please remember that you cannot lead others if you don’t take care of yourself. It’s okay to take a breath, and center yourself for a few moments. We all have to adapt, and that doesn’t happen automatically.

I’d also like us to remember that while our new reality includes some big frightening facts, it also includes some old truths, like the ability of strong communities to weather even the worst storms, and the ability of good leadership to find footing in the most uncertain times.

I believe this is particularly true of St. Louis. History has shown our ability to overcome hardship. Our resilience hasn’t changed. The only thing that has changed is what success looks like.

We need new ways to understand our shared vulnerabilities. And we need new ways to harness our shared strengths. We feel confident that we can do this, as long as we can do it together with you, our friends, sponsors, Board of Directors and FOCUS leaders.

 So….let’s get to work!

 We look forward to connecting virtually with you all soon!