Focus: HOPE Co-Founder Helped Shores Charity

The impact of the late Focus: HOPE co-founder Eleanor Josaitis could be felt from the Detroit campus of her social services organization all the way to the St. Clair Shores offices of Wigs 4 Kids.

For more than two decades Josaitis was a client at Sophisti-Cuts/Go Green Salon and got to know owner Maggie Varney and her efforts to help children and young adults who are dealing with hair loss.

What began as relationship between a client and stylist, grew into something much greater as Josaitis became a mentor, friend and supporter of Varney and her non-profit, .

"She was so dedicated, passionate and committed," said Varney. "She loved Wigs 4 Kids, and I loved and respected her and her family."

The relationship continued grow about five years ago when Josaitis was diagnosed with cancer. While she didn't need a full wig, Varney helped her with a hair piece.

And when Josaitis visited the salon, and children were being fitted for their wigs, she would offer words of support.

"(She would say) wigs are for grandmas too," Varney recalled. "She was genuine. She was a real person who was driven by her passion to serve others."

While the former suburban housewife built Focus: HOPE into a nationally respected organization and lobbied governors, senators and presidents, Josaitis always had time to help other non-profits succeed.

Varney said that Josaitis brought her down to Focus: HOPE and mentored her on how to build and grow Wigs 4 Kids.

"She became my mentor," Varney said. "There would be many times I would be discouraged and she would say 'quitting is not an option.'"

Josaitis died from cancer Tuesday, and funeral services will be held Saturday in Detroit.