Dear Friends,

We're honoring Black History Month at Circus Up by learning about the incredible work of EMBRACE Boston and following upcoming events, ongoing exhibits, and walking tours shared on the City of Boston website.

We started the year reflecting on what we want to feel more of in 2026. Some of our younger youth responded with simple, truthful words like "happy" or "strong", while older youth and staff said things like "calm", "connected", or "confident". As for me, I want to stay more present.

We've all been rattled by what we're seeing happening across the country. It's worth asking ourselves in this moment, how will we leverage our unique strengths to protect our communities? How might we take small, but powerful steps toward creating real equity and belonging? And then in addition to taking action, what can we do to lift each other up? To find joy and connection? 

Holding onto joy is part of how we fight for justice. Please, let's stay connected during these times, and thank you for all of your support of Circus Up youth.

With solidarity,
Leah Abel, Executive Director

Kirkos Show Feb 18th!

The Foundry's fourth annual Festival is February 14-21 and our youth community troupe Kirkos performs Wednesday, February 18 at 11:30am! Come support Kirkos's first show of the year!

Celebrate this year’s festival theme, “Pathways” through FREE activities for all ages, interests, and skill levels, including art, workshops, and performances that explore the winding paths that unite us. 
See the full agenda here.

Remember this day?!

Kirkos performed a fantastic show on a hot summer day at the Dudley Street Neighborhood Festival last summer. Out of nowhere, the kids were delighted by a surprise foam machine! Here are two Kirkos team members enjoying the suds. Sure, this meant extra laundry and cleanup for the adults, but it didn't matter because look at those smiles!

Give to Circus Up!

Have you considered giving to Circus Up as part of your legacy giving? Since 2017, Circus Up has used social circus to create free youth development programming for under-resourced communities in the greater Boston area. Legacy giving creates long-term impact by fueling community-centered solutions.

Your support helps us continue to create inclusive, accessible, and joyful programs for all. Read about Circus Up in the January 17th issue of The Boston Globe.

Want to start a conversation? Contact Executive Director Leah Abel about starting your legacy at leah@circusup.com.