On this week's episode of In Focus, we sit down with Edie Widder of the Ocean Research and Conservation Association, also known as ORCA. The group found its start here on the Treasure Coast, and has dedicated itself to fighting for our oceans, the Indian River Lagoon, and all its inhabitants.Widder is a storied and well versed ocean explorer, and together we talk about the work that goes into healing a declining lagoon, as well as their signature fundraising event surrounded by deep-sea submarines, slated for Feb. 28.

On this week's episode of In Focus, we are joined by Amber Ducote and Andrea Levy of the Council on Aging on Martin County, a local organization which is dedicated to leading seniors into their golden years with dignity and grace. Together, we discuss the programs they offer to the Treasure Coast's elderly population, aging and the value of guidance during our later years, and their Pep Rally Gala, which is set to kick off on Feb. 28.

This week on In Focus, we sit down with Michelle Nevaeh and Debbie Avery of the Vero Beach Art Club, a local group who work hard to bring a splash of color to the lives of Indian River County residents through its art-based programs and events. We discuss 90 years of service, how the club unites both novice and expert artists alike, and their litany of upcoming events.Then later on, we are joined by Dave Amado of the Atlantic Classical Orchestra, a local group of musicians bringing beautiful music to the Treasure Coast through its 2026 concert series. Dave and I discuss how people connect with classical music, and reflect on what we can learn from it.

This week on In Focus, we sit down with Susan DeOnofrio of Team Miranda Strong to talk about the organization’s work expanding access to healthcare for people with asthma and allergies, as well as its efforts to educate the public about those conditions.Later in the program, Melanie and Timothy Trewyn share their mission to eliminate impaired driving from local roads. They discuss an upcoming memorial drive scheduled for Feb. 7, aimed at showing unity against drunk driving and honoring those who have lost their lives.

This week on In Focus, we sit down with Sarah Fisher of the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, a group dedicated housing in need animals and connecting them to loving families. Together, we discuss all that it takes to make a shelter like this possible, the importance of proper pet care in our community, and how the group continues to evolve as the Treasure Coast grows. Join them for their Paws and Claws Gala, their premiere fundraiser, on Feb. 21.

This week on In Focus, we sit down with Jacob Craig of the Indian River Symphonic Association, a group dedicated to bringing world-class symphonies to the Treasure Coast. Together we talk about how music moves and inspires us, and why even hundreds of years later, these compositions are still so relevant.Their 2026 season is currently underway, with their next concert on Jan. 20 featuring the Prague Philarmonia.

On this week's episode of In Focus, we sit down with Jill Gleichman and John Nelson of the Audubon of Martin County. The Audubon is a local organization that encourages folks to stop, take in the scenery, and keep an eye out for many of the amazing birds which call the Treasure Coast Home.Together, we talk about all the things which make our area a hot spot for birding, 70 years of Audubon history and activism, and their upcoming anniversary gala, slated for Jan. 29.

This week on In Focus, we sit down with Cynthia Callendar of the Laura Riding Jackson Foundation. The organization, which was founded over 30 years ago, traces its roots back to Laura Jackson, a prolific and historic figure on the Treasure Coast, known for her writing.Together, we talk about the significance of that history and why preserving it matters, as well as the importance of writing and literacy. LRJF works with people of all ages to hone their pen and instill within them the strength of the written word. Their upcoming fundraiser, featuring acclaimed author Scott Turrow, is on Jan. 13.

This week on In Focus, Greg Braun, executive director of the Guardians Of Martin County, sits down with us to talk about what it takes to preserve "The Martin County Difference." Together, we discuss the growth of the Treasure Coast, and the importance of balancing economic prosperity and protecting the beautiful nature which we are lucky to call our home.

Today on In Focus, we are joined by the leadership at 4-H. Together, we talk about the value of education in our community, and how the group helps students find their passion and charts them on a path of success as they start their careers. They will be hosting their annual Benefit Gala on Jan. 17, which is a cornerstone of their funding.

Joining us this week on In Focus is Ana Paula Tavares of Save the Chimps, a local organization that rescues chimps in need from all across the country. Learn about the animals themselves, how the group deals with the massive undertaking of caring for over 200 chimps, and how you can support their mission with their upcoming events, which allow you to see the chimps in action.

This week on In Focus, we are joined by Vicki Hoyos of Heathcote Botanical Gardens. Together, we take an audio tour through the facility as we learn about their history and discuss the importance of the gardens to our area, and the beauty of such a rich and diverse array of plant life. Their seasonal draw, The Garden of Lights, runs through every weekend of December, and promises to bring wonder and awe to those who walk its grounds this holiday season.