(EDITOR'S NOTE: The following was submitted by Isabel Belliard.)

Families in Concord and Sudbury will have the unique opportunity to bring a bit of the world into their own homes between Sept. 10-17, when an international cast of Up with People arrives to Concord, a stop on their 2012 world tour.

Host families are being sought to keep one or more students from Cast B 2012, the 100-member Up with People cast, which represents 20 countries.  “It is a great opportunity to experience other cultures while sharing your own,” said Diane Goldsmith. 

The opportunity to stay with local families during their stay in each community is a centerpiece of Up with People’s 22-week program. The giving goes both ways; while families share their traditions and local attractions, the cast members also share their experiences and cultures. 

Local host families are asked to provide a bed, local transportation at the beginning and end of each day, as well as breakfast and most dinners. While gone during the day, participating in regional learning, community service and show preparation, most evenings cast members will be home with the family to participate in their activities and interests.

In addition to many wonderful experiences with their new “son” or “daughter,” each host family will receive two complimentary tickets to the Up with People’s newest production Voices, which is themed around the power and the irony of communication in today’s global climate. The aim is to leave the audience feeling empowered to connect, communicate and create positive change in their communities; to "... rise above the noises, and listen to the voices of the world." The show will be held at the Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School on Thursday, Sept. 13, and at the Concord Carlisle Regional High School on Friday, Sept. 14, at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Sept 16, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.

“I can honestly say that the dozens of families who have opened their homes to me during my time in Up with People is one of the most meaningful and memorable experiences I have had,” said Diane Goldsmith. “I still stay in contact with many of them, and I believe they will remain lifelong friends."

Those with smaller children or young teens in their home often find that the Up with People cast members are wonderful role models and provide a glimpse into other countries, cultures and traditions they might not often experience in Sudbury, Goldsmith added.

Local families in the Concord and Sudbury area are being sought to host the cast members between September 10-17. Those interested in hosting are encouraged to contact Diane Goldsmith on the Advance Team at dgoldsmith@upwithpeople.org or by calling 936-828-7006.

Up with People is continuously seeking young leaders who are ready for this unique and life-changing experience.   Everyone knows someone who is perfect for Up with People... who do you know?  Is it you?  A neighbor?  A friend?  Learn how you or someone you know can travel the world, earn college credit and make a difference in Up with People by visiting www.upwithpeople.org or calling 303.460.7100.

Barrett & Company Real Estate is the community sponsor for Up with People’s visit; the media sponsor is Wicked Local (Concord Journal).