American Tourist is Upward Transitions’ annual fundraising event. Each year, Upward Transitions transports our guests to a new destination. This year, we are bringing the Parisian-styled party to you, featuring online special musical guests, local community engagement, and party packs. Your party pack will be a pre-packaged American Tourist experience in a box that you can enjoy in the safety of your own home or business. On May 7, we invite you to join us virtually for a one-hour LIVE streamed event at 6:30 p.m.
“American Tourist is our premier event,” said Periann Pulliam, Upward Transitions CEO. “Although we usually gather in-person to share our mission and celebrate the year with our supporters, we are excited about this year’s virtual event which transports our guests to The City of Lights for an evening that will not only be great fun but will also raise money to end generational poverty in Oklahoma County.”
The night will include an online auction, an opportunity to learn more about the mission of Upward Transitions, a wine pull, client and supporter stories, and the presentation of the “Inspiring Hope” award to Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt. Upward Transitions is inviting the community to participate and support the mission of Upward Transitions with their participation and their generosity.
The “Inspiring Hope” award recipient embodies a phrase from the Upward Transitions’ mission statement – “inspiring hope with our neighbors”, especially those experiencing homelessness and housing instability. Mayor Holt’s “One OKC” message reflects his belief that Oklahoma City can continue to thrive only if we set aside the things that divide us and find a common purpose. Upward Transitions believes that Mayor Holt brings hope to the community through his spirit of unity, his commitment to improving quality of life, and his ongoing effort for economic growth in the city.
The support of this fundraiser allows Upward Transitions to fulfill its mission of serving those who are homeless or on the verge of becoming homeless by providing case management and stabilizing resources to meet basic social needs. The goal is to assist individuals and families to reach their highest potential. Upward Transitions equips families and individuals with the ability to become self-sufficient and contribute back to their community. Upward Transitions is a private non-profit agency founded in 1925 and has served the Oklahoma County community for almost 100 years. Upward Transitions is dedicated to community development and advocacy for those who are homeless or poor.