Tampa, FL — July 8, 2025 — Project Focus is honored to announce the formation of its first-ever Advisory Council, a distinguished group of civic, business, and philanthropic leaders who will help guide the organization’s growth and long-term vision to develop a “community within the community” for individuals with developmental disabilities.

This Council will serve as an influential body of advocates lending their name, voice, and leadership to amplify Project Focus’s mission. While the council holds no governance responsibilities, its members will be called upon periodically for insight, connections, and thought partnership as the organization scales its impact.

“The Advisory Council gives us the ability to bring together leaders who deeply believe in this mission and are ready to help elevate it,” said Clayton Clemens, Executive Director of Project Focus. “They understand the issues impacting individuals with developmental disabilities, and their support is a critical step in creating sustainable housing, workforce, and education solutions that empower individuals with disabilities and their families to live independently.”

“Proud to stand alongside Project Focus and their vital mission to uplift those in our community who are too often overlooked amid society’s growing challenges,” said Hillsborough County Commissioner Josh Wostal. “Their work is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together to create meaningful, lasting solutions.”

Project Focus Advisory Council Members include:

· Commissioner Josh Wostal, Hillsborough County

· Councilman Luis Viera, City of Tampa

· Leroy Moore, Sr. Vice President/COO, Tampa Housing Authority

· John Nertney, Chief Financial Officer, Alliant Partners

· School Board Member Patti Rendon, Hillsborough County School Board

· Dr. Eric Eisenberg, Sr. Vice President, University South Florida Community Partnerships

· Eileen Pope, Senior Vice President of Community Development, Bank of America

· Mayor Andy Ross, City of Temple Terrace

· Christian Leon, Executive Director, Patel Family Foundation

To learn more about the Project Focus Advisory Council, how to support their mission, or get involved, visit www.projectfocusfoundation.org.

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For Media Inquiries, contact: Clayton Clemens Project Focus – Executive Director cclemens@projectfocususa.org (267) 614-1063

About Project Focus: Project Focus supports education, life skills training, and workforce development for over 160 students and young adults with developmental disabilities across Tampa Bay. Through its programs, including Focus Academy, the Focus Forward Adult Day Training Program, Focus Workforce Readiness Program and the Focus Café, the nonprofit empowers young people to achieve independence, build social connections, and engage with the broader community

Looking ahead, Project Focus is actively working toward the creation of a state-of-the-art campus. This inclusive environment will integrate current programs with a workforce training center and supported housing, offering spaces for commercial partners like markets and cafés. The new campus will reduce transportation barriers, providing easier access to essential services and enhancing students’ opportunities for job training and community involvement.

For more information, visit: https://www.projectfocusfoundation.org