About Us

When Lulu Richardson founded FOCUS on Recovery in October 2001, she answered the question, “What do women need to obtain and maintain sobriety?” Lulu envisioned a long-term recovery place for women to live after primary treatment for substance abuse. Focus’ meager beginnings consisted of two partially furnished, donated apartments to serve eight women, a small empty office on Birmingham’s Southside and a monetary donation of $300. Ten years later in 2011, FOCUS had grown to nine apartments for 27 women, with two resident assistants living on site and on-site administrative offices as well.

In August, 2002, FOCUS received its 501(c)(3) public charity status and today continues to provide a safe haven and critical life-skills training for women during the crucial transition period between primary treatment and returning home as responsible parents, family members and citizens. Focus has successfully served more than 400 women with affordable services that have helped them return to sober lifestyles in our community.

FOCUS promotes the well-being of women in recovery from alcohol, drugs and other related behaviors by providing a safe, structured, sober living environment utilizing a service system that emphasizes trust, respect, confidentiality and compassion.

The mission of FOCUS On Recovery is to provide women a clean and sober living environment that bridges the crucial period between   primary treatment and lasting recovery.

Read our 2009 Annual Report.