If you have

been breathing for any period of time in the past 30

years, you probably have seen or heard about Up With

People.

It's an

international learning program that provides personal and

professional growth through travel, performing arts and

community service. The group's dynamic, contemporary,

upbeat show has thrilled over 35 million people since its

creation. When the 2000 tour kicks off, one of Fayette's

local stars will be dancing and singing around the world

with the group.

Shanon

Heaton, a 1998 graduate of McIntosh High School and a

rising sophomore at Valdosta State University, has been

selected from some 6,000 applicants to participate in the

program. Although musical and dance talent are obvious

assets for the program, maturity, an interest in the

world, motivation and a desire to contribute to society

also are required.

At Valdosta

State, Heaton is a member of the Blazer Marching Band,

Alpha Gamma Delta sorority and the Air Force ROTC. She is

a business major and hopes to have a career in aviation

when she completes her studies.

On the

10-month tour, the group of 150 people will travel 30,000

miles, stay with 70-90 host families, and learn about

other people, cultures and languages. They will perform

community performances at high schools, hospitals,

prisons and homes for the elderly and handicapped.

On top of

the community services that the cast performs, members

also can earn academic credits and work in practical work

internships. Heaton is designing an independent study

program through Georgia State University so she can earn

credits while on tour.

More than

16,500 young men and women from over 92 countries have

participated in the program since its inception in the

1960s. Most of the tours take place in North America, but

the group has performed in over 50 countries including

Japan, Russia and Venezuela.

Up With

People students pay a program fee to help defray expenses

of their participation in the program. Because of the

costs, many of the students raise a portion of their fees

through sponsorships and fund-raising activities.

Heaton is

working full time at Car Quest while she is home for the

summer, as well as conducting car washes and bake sales

to raise money. To help her raise funds, call

770-487-5879.

<!--##############