March 2, 2020 - two speakers from Up with People described the organization as well as their own experiences.Juliette Ibarrondo from Belgium and Joshua Carballo from Mexico spoke to us and presented a video to help capture the essence of "Up with People". They tour for 2 semesters a year with 100 people from over 15 countries who are from ages 17 to 29 and have completed high school. They visit at least two countries and several states on each tour. Practice sessions begin in Colorado 4 weeks before each tour begins. They stay with volunteer host families for a week at each location. The group will be in Phoenix from March 23-30 and will perform at the Mesa Arts Center on March 27 at 7 p.m.
From their website -
Explore the world, engage with communities, impact the world. Since 1965, Up with People has empowered young people to become global citizens, community change makers, confident performers, and discover their ability to promote positive change in our one of a kind global education program. Through our comprehensive program composed of the performing arts, volunteer service, travel, and leadership, we aspire to unite and inspire communities, spark others to think more broadly about their world, and forge connections among diverse cultures.
And -
Young adults from all over the world travel abroad with Up with People for one or two semesters, beginning in January or July of each year. Each international tour embarks with nearly 100 participants, ages 17 – 29, from more than 15 countries. Each group travels to nearly 20 communities across a minimum of two continents each semester, typically spending one week in each city. Cast members live with a local host family, volunteer 8 – 12 hours in service projects, participate in 4 – 6 hours of educational workshops, and perform in Up with People’s two-hour professionally produced musical production. Up with People also offers you the ability to earn academic credit during your travels.
The club was impressed with the organization and asked several questions before presenting them with a $100 check.