The first Focus Forward Project class graduated in July 2012 at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in New York City.  The Focus Forward Project then expanded to teach classes at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn and for individuals out on bail in the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York. The Focus Forward Project became a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit in February 2013.  

The Focus Forward Project was created to address the lack of educational opportunities and reentry planning programs available to individuals in the pretrial phase of their case. Our program provides participants with the skills to better utilize this period of great uncertainty. In addition to teaching valuable life skills and providing support, the completion of the Focus Forward class can demonstrate personal growth and a dedication to reentry that may impact a judge's assessment of an appropriate sentence. The Focus Forward Project provides participants with the opportunity to begin to move forward successfully in their lives.