Our Story

Hello there. My name is Erik. In 1999, I was granted the amazing opportunity of traveling with the international, multi-cultural, non-profit performance group Up with People. UwP has been touring, staying with host families, doing community involvement projects, and helping the world bring understanding to each other since the sixties. I traveled with the group for a year with a group of over 150 students through the Midwest and Northeast U.S. as well as Sweden, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Spain, the Netherlands, and Portugal. The experiences I had were the most uplifting, eye-opening, and mind-expanding experiences I've ever had and I couldn't have asked for a better time. The experience not only helped me to learn about different cultures, peoples, and lifestyles, but helped me to learn about myself and the part I play in an ever-changing global community.

In 2006, after the organization went through some very difficult times,  I helped put together the new show and program. Later that year the program was relaunched and has been striving stronger than ever since.

On January 1, 2011 members of Up with People alumni from casts 2006 to present will come together to perform in the timeless Tournament of Roses Parade. I have been invited to take part in this amazing performance. The problem is that since UwP is a non-profit organization, I have to get myself there. I am quite far from CA and at my most current check, the cheapest round trip flight from St. Louis to Ontario, CA is about $517.00.  So that's where I need your help.

The Impact

By helping me get to CA to perform in the parade, you will be not only helping me take part in a wonderful experience but one that will be nationally televised. So you will be able to turn on your TV the morning of the first and see me right in front of you! The goal deadline is also my birthday so by helping me reach the performance, you will also essentially be giving me a birthday present.

What We Need & What You Get

The $500 will go directly and only to my flight. The rest will be handled by handled by Up with People as they are coordination host families for all of the performers to stay with. The host family will also take care of transportation to and from rehearsal and the venue.

Other Ways You Can Help

Please spread the word throughout your social networks, to your friends, and family! Thanks ahead of time!