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.

This week on In Focus, we are joined by Sherlley Jacques of the Tutoring Services Plus Foundation, a recently opened nonprofit trying to get on its feet to fill a much needed gap in our community — English and GED education for first generation immigrants. We discuss the struggles that such people have in our community as they try to navigate day-to-day-life, the education opportunities they offer, the importance of learning and technology, and what the future looks like for the organization after its inaugural year.

This week on In Focus, we are joined by Christine Mulrooney and Holly Carey of the Woman's Club of Stuart. Together, we walk through the group's rich history and connection to the community, the ways the group connects and empowers women, and their vast tapestry of programs and initiatives which encompass a broad range of focus areas. Join them on Dec. 7 for their annual Holiday Home Tour, and experience the creative festivity of Martin County residents.

This week on In Focus, we are joined by Christina McIntosh of the Children's Museum of the Treasure Coast. Together, we talk about the museum's deep history, how it connects kids with their families in a meaningful and educational way, and how they continue to grow. We also discuss their ongoing Festival of Giving event, which funnels support into the Treasure Coast's many non-profits.

This week on In Focus, we sit down with Tania Ortega-Cowan of Vero Beach Opera. She walks through the highlights of the upcoming 2026 season, and shares with us how they scout for their talent within our community. Join us as we discuss the importance of art, why even skeptics should consider giving opera a try, and how this upcoming season will incorporate the vision of their new director.

This week on In Focus, we are joined by the folks of the Fort Pierce Art Club to learn about the club's rich history on the Treasure Coast, how they bring the community together with art, and more. Join them for their Magnificent Miniature Masterpieces event on Nov. 7 and Nov. 8 to see unique 3x3 inch canvas paintings made by local talent!

Joining us this week on In Focus is Ken Grudens and Melissa DePriest of the Indian River Land Trust. With a storied history in land conservation, the group shares with us the rigorous process they have for protecting the lagoon and surrounding lands, and how those lands are utilized by the public. They also discuss their upcoming living classroom project, which is set to define environmental education in the Treasure Coast. Their benefit event is slated for Nov. 6.

Today on In Focus, we speak with Gabby McHenry of FAU Harbor Branch, a research hub here on the Treasure Coast. The Harbor Branch is more than people in lab coats, though, its a community outreach organization dedicated to connecting locals with the amazing ecosystems which surround them. Gabby shares with us the many ways they go about doing that, including their upcoming Lagoon Science Festival, slated for Oct. 25.