Meet the Staff
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.
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.
Kathryn Pennington
Case Manager
She is married to Johnny, whom she wholeheartedly believes the Lord handpicked for her. He is her steady place, her encourager, and the one who reminds her who she is when life feels heavy. His quiet strength and unwavering support make it possible for her to show up fully in the work God has called her to, and she genuinely believes she couldn’t do it without him.
Together, they have two amazing kiddos—Elijah, who is almost 12, and Emersyn, who is almost 5.
She serves as a Case Manager with FOCUS Ministries, where she has the privilege of walking alongside women as they navigate challenges, work toward their goals, and take steps toward lasting change and a new future. She considers it an honor to be part of what God is doing in the lives of the women FOCUS serves and to encourage them as they discover hope, healing, and purpose.
Her favorite Scripture is John 14:1: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.” It is a verse that reminds her daily of where her peace and strength come from.
In the little free time she has, one of her favorite things to do is hand-pick encouragement cards from Dollar Tree and mail them to friends, family, or anyone the Lord places on her heart. It’s a simple but meaningful way she quietly spreads encouragement, love, and light to others.
And yes—she runs on Jesus and a large Iced Caramel Craze with almond milk from Dunkin’!
She is incredibly grateful to be part of what God is doing through FOCUS Ministries and looks forward to continuing to grow, serve, and walk alongside the women, staff, and community God has placed around her.
Jodi Jenkins
Behind the Walls Program Manager
Jodi Jenkins is a daughter of the Most High God and a grateful survivor of 27 years of drug addiction and alcoholism. She has been to the depths of hell through addiction, but when Jesus called her name, she chose to live for His.
Today, Jodi is blessed to be set free and even more blessed to walk back into the very fire He pulled her from—to help guide others out and into freedom. The places where she was once broken are now the very places God uses to shine His light through her and help others find hope, healing, and freedom.
Jodi now serves as one of FOCUS Ministries’ Case Managers and as our Behind the Walls Manager, walking alongside women who are incarcerated and those navigating the difficult journey of rebuilding their lives. Her own story allows her to meet women with compassion, understanding, and hope,
reminding them that their past does not have to determine their future and that true freedom and a new life are possible through Christ.
God has been so good to Jodi, and her life is a testimony that no one is too far gone for His grace.
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 BA in Ministry Leadership - Preaching & Church Leadership at Johnson University and plans to return afterward to complete an MBA in Non-Profit Business.