Welcome to the UP™ Program
“Empowering Kids to Create their Own Futures the UP™ Way”
“Our Mission is to Ensure that Every Young Person in Howard County has the Education,
Work-ethic and Life Skills needed to Transition Successfully into a Self-reliant Adult.”
UP: Unleashing Potential, Passion and Purpose
10 Graduates. 10 Futures.
0 Financial Barriers.
This year, 10 incredible youth officially graduated high school through the UP™ Program.
Every single one has a concrete plan for their next step—and we are making sure finances don't stand in their way.
The Book: The Kid with Yellow Crocs
Before he was a success story, Traeshawn Weaver was just a teenager walking through our doors in bright yellow Crocs, looking for a reason to trust.
His inspiring journey is now a moving book written by director Jeff Newton.
Our 30-Day Challenge: We need to sell 300 books in 30 days to completely fund our graduates' next steps.
Cost: $20 per copy
Buy the Book & Fund a Future https://jeff-newtonyellowcrocs.square.site/s/shop
In-person pickup available at 813 S. Union St. Kokomo, IN 46901
The Legacy: Traeshawn Weaver Memorial Scholarship
Before passing away at just 18 years old, Trey designed this practical scholarship himself to help other local kids rise. A portion of every single book sold goes directly into this fund:
💻 College Track ($1,000): Covers the real essentials like textbooks, laptops, or rides to campus.
🛠️ Workforce Track ($500): Covers tools, uniforms, or specialized shoes to start a trade career.
Through daily structure, real work, and clear expectations, kids practice responsibility and life skills alongside caring adults.
