Q: Is the UWPIAA part of Up With People?

A: No. The UWPIAA is an independent organization with a separate mission than that of Up With People. The UWPIAA's primary goal is to serve alumni -- Up With People's main focus is the operation of its student program.

After UWP closed its doors in December 2000, the UWPIAA assumed responsibility to maintain communications among alumni through publication of UpBeat and this website and to hold annual reunions.

Even after UWP has resumed operations in 2004 with a new student program, UWP and the UWPIAA remain separate organizations with separate missions. However, the two organizations work closely together, and there is currently a BOG member of the UWPIAA serving on UWP's board of directors, and vice versa.

Q: Are the UpBeat staff members paid for their work? What about the Board of Governors?

A: All volunteers with the UWPIAA are just that -- volunteers. The staff of UpBeat, the web team, alumni interviewers, cast representatives, members of the Board of Governors (BOG) and other volunteers are not paid for their efforts. In addition, the BOG members cover expenses related to their semi-annual meetings (including airfare, hotel, food, etc.). This represents a considerable financial commitment on the part of the BOG, and is reflective of their dedication to the ideals of UWP and her alumni.

Q:How can I find my castmates?

If you are trying to reach castmates, the best way to start is the "Search Alumni" page. You can also contact your cast representative. If you don't know who your cast representative is, than contact your Era Rep (see the Board of Governors page) for further help.

Q:Why don't I receive UpBeat?

A: Every alum is entitled to receive the quarterly newsletter UpBeat free of charge. If you are not receiving UpBeat, it probably means that the UWPIAA does not have your current address.

To update your address, please update your information in the Online Community! You can also contact the UWPIAA Secretary at secretary@uwpiaa.org. Also, be sure to send any changes in your information to your Cast Rep.

Q: How can I start an alumni chapter or club in my area?

A: It's easy! Just visit our Clubs and Chapters section to learn how you can start a local club or chapter -- or learn if one already exists in your area.

Q: Why is it so hard to stay in touch with castmates and the UWPIAA now that I'm off the road?

A: First, please ensure that your address is correct. Keeping your address up to date at all times goes a long way toward improving communications. (Information on changing your address is listed above.)

If you'd like to stay in touch with Up With People or the UWPIAA, the Internet is a good starting point. Visit the UWP website at www.upwithpeople.org and see what's going on. Bookmark this site and check back often for announcements and new volunteer opportunities. Use the bulletin board to stay in touch with friends and read about the latest initiatives in Denver and around the world. Read UpBeat to learn about what's happening in the alumni world.

But most of all -- get involved however you can. Whether you volunteer your time on UpBeat, participate in (or start) a local alumni chapter, attend a BOG meeting or conduct student interviews, you make a difference to the future of the Up With People program. You can give as much or as little of your time as you wish. Whatever your contribution, it will be welcomed and appreciated by the UWPIAA.

Visit our Volunteer Opportunities page or contact any member of the BOG for more ideas. We look forward to hearing from you!