Workshops / Events
In addition to our youth and senior-specific programs, Upward Thrive Academy offers workshops and training in the areas of work readiness, leadership, and literacy to the general public.
Family wellness events throughout the year are designed to help families improve the quality of communication among family members to foster a positive home environment and strengthen relationships.
WE CARE
WE CARE (widowed & elderly care) is a UTA program providing training, workshops, activities. and assistance empowering widows/widowers age 50 and older; and senior citizens ages 55 and older. UTA equips senior citizens to age with dignity and vibrancy; ultimately maintaining wellness and implementing coping mechanisms through the aging process.
Community Development & Engagement Initiatives
Community Development & Engagement Initiatives
UTA is dedicated to empowering individuals and groups of people to effect change and promote wellness within their local communities.
Cupcakes for Christmas Toy Drive
Cupcakes for Christmas Toy Drive was initially founded in 2012 by UTA’s executive director and her family. This annual event is now operated by Upward Thrive Academy, Inc. This Christmas season initiative solicits southern Maryland residents to come out on event day and donate new toys for families in need. In return, participants enjoy delicious cupcakes, goodie bags, and fun activities for the entire family. Local businesses support by supplying candies and treats to help fill the goodie bags; local bakeries and other businesses donate the cupcakes. All toys collected during the Drive are distributed to families in need after the event and the remaining cupcakes are donated to nearby homeless shelters and\or organizations which feed the hungry. Cupcakes for Christmas Toy Drive is free and open to the public.
Seasons of Angels
UTA Seasons of Angels is a crafting and distribution initiative that is continued throughout the year. Upward Thrive Academy program participants and members of the local community come together to craft angel ornaments. The crafters and volunteers meet up on scheduled dates to distribute the angels to nursing homes, rehab centers, and health care facility residents and staff.
Upward Thrive Academy Wellness Awards Gala (2022 Gala postponed due to COVID).
The UTA Wellness Awards Gala will be held annually and recognize excellence and leadership demonstrated by youth and adults within our local communities.
Adult Programs
UTA will provide family wellness programs geared to promoting restoration and preservation, resolving family relationship challenges, and parenting support for families throughout our local communities; with goals to expand such programs on a broader scale to provide assistance to a global audience of families in need.
At times, UTA provides opportunities for voluntary involvement in outreach activities and programs to further our mission. Participants who volunteer may assist with set-up, distribution of materials, and clean-up at community-based events such as our Cupcakes for Christmas toy drive and our Seasons of Angels Initiative.
