Meet the Staff
Kathryn Pennington
Case Manager
I’m a wife to Johnny, who I wholeheartedly believe was handpicked for me by the Lord. He’s been my steady place, my encourager, and the one who reminds me who I am when life feels heavy. His quiet strength and unwavering support have made it possible for me to show up fully in the work I’ve been called to. I genuinely couldn’t do this without him. We have two amazing kiddos — Elijah (almost 12) and Emersyn (almost 4). My favorite scripture is John 14:1: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” That verse reminds me daily where my peace and strength come from. In the little free time I have, my guilty pleasure is hand-picking encouragement cards from Dollar Tree and mailing them to friends, family, or anyone the Lord puts on my heart. It’s one of my favorite ways to quietly spread love and light. And yes — I run on Jesus and a large iced caramel craze with almond milk from Dunkin'.I’m so grateful to be part of what God is doing through Focus. I can’t wait to grow, serve, and walk this journey with each of you.
After graduating, Savannah stayed connected as a mentor and volunteered at the office, eager to give back to the program that restored her life. She is now pursuing a degree in Family Studies at Johnson University to better support other women in overcoming similar challenges.
By April 2023, she was offered a position as Administrative Assistant. Savannah takes pride in being part of an organization dedicated to empowering women to transform their lives. Her testimony reinforces the belief that with Jesus at the center, anything is possible.
Savannah Ford
Administrative Assistant
Savannah's journey is a powerful testament to resilience. After 15 years cycling through addiction, rehab, and incarceration, she faced a double-digit prison sentence following her last arrest in October 2020. Despite feeling resigned to a life of drugs and jail, God had greater plans for her. While incarcerated, she heard a message that transformed her: “You’re worthy because I say you’re worthy.”
This revelation sparked a decision to change her life. In January 2021, God opened doors for her to join the FOCUS Reentry Program. There, she uncovered her true worth and realized her capability to stay drug and alcohol-free.
Jodi Jenkins
Behind the Walls Program Manager
Nichole Dyess
Partner Engagement Coordinator & Resident House Manager
Nichole lived most of her life just north of Houston, Texas, and moved to Knoxville in 2024. She is a passionate follower of Christ, dedicated to helping people discover their true worth and identity in Him. Her heart is especially drawn to those reentering society who are searching for purpose and belonging. She loves working for and with FOCUS because it allows her to walk alongside individuals as they rebuild their lives and learn who they are in Christ.
Nichole brings a diverse background of hands-on experience, including her work at Susannah’s House, her volunteer work with Innerfaith Disciple House & KARM Ministries, and the operation of Creasey Cleaning Co. These experiences have deepened her commitment to practical ministry and compassionate service.
She is currently pursuing a degree in Ministry Leadership with a concentration in Urban Ministry at Johnson University and plans to return afterward to complete an MBA in Non-Profit Business.
Nicole Broesch
Grant Writer & Fundraising
Nicole grew up in Tazewell, TN, and holds a degree in Apparel Textiles and Design with a minor in Communication from Bob Jones University. During college, she discovered her passion for ministering to incarcerated women, spending three years holding church services at a detention center in Greenwood, SC. After graduation, Nicole began her career in the apparel industry as a designer while continuing to serve marginalized women.
In 2020, she married her husband, Justin, and together they felt God leading them to use her creative talents for His Kingdom. They launched an ethical apparel brand in 2023, dedicated to empowering women in recovery within her hometown. Shortly before the brand’s launch, God answered Nicole’s eight-year prayer to “go behind the walls again,” connecting her with FOCUS Ministries. After a year and a half of volunteering, God opened the door for her to become the Behind the Walls Manager.
Nicole is passionate about pointing others to Jesus and helping women develop a deep, intimate relationship with Him. She lives in Knoxville with her husband and their beloved cat, Boo Bear. When she’s not running her business or working with FOCUS, she enjoys hiking, concerts, and baking. Nicole also serves with a recovery ministry at her church, is an Appalachian Leadership Institute alumna, and works with local government partnerships to support her community.