DETROIT – Focus: HOPE named Lydia Rae Levinson as inaugural Chief Philanthropy Officer, marking the addition of a new executive role at Focus: HOPE designed to strengthen the organization’s philanthropic strategy, deepen donor engagement and support the long-term growth of its mission.
As CPO, Levinson will lead Focus: HOPE’s individual giving, corporate philanthropy, foundation relations, grants and marketing and communications efforts. The creation of this new role reflects Focus: HOPE’s continued investment in building sustainable resources that will expand its ability to serve metro Detroit families through early learning, workforce development and food security.
Levinson brings more than 12 years of leadership experience in fundraising, strategic partnerships and philanthropic development throughout Detroit. Her career has focused on mobilizing resources across the public, private and nonprofit sectors to advance community priorities.
Prior to joining Focus: HOPE, Levinson served as Chief Development Officer at The Zekelman Holocaust Center, where she led a multidisciplinary team across fundraising, marketing, communications and events. Her previous roles also included Fund Development Officer and later Deputy Chief Development Officer for the City of Detroit under former mayor Mike Duggan.
“Lydia is an accomplished leader whose career has been built on bringing together philanthropy, government, business and community organizations to create meaningful change,” said Portia Roberson, CEO of Focus: HOPE. “As Focus: HOPE continues to grow and expand, establishing this new leadership position is an important milestone and we are thrilled to welcome Lydia to the team.”
Levinson said she is “honored” to join Focus: HOPE at “such an exciting time in the organization’s history,”
“Focus: HOPE has spent nearly 60 years creating pathways to opportunity and addressing the root causes of racism, poverty, and injustice in our community,” she said. “I look forward to building meaningful partnerships to sustain and grow this legacy.”
Levinson holds graduate degrees in Sustainable Agriculture and Community and Regional Planning, which continue to inform her passion for food systems, equitable economic development and community investment.
