Oooh-oooh, 

Happy feelin's in the air 

Touchin' people everywhere 

Plenty love and everything 

Listen to the people sing

 You will win a virtual high-five if you can tell me which song these lyrics belong to…

 Too late! It’s from one of my favorite songs by Frankie Beverly and Maze, entitled Happy Feelings. It is a song that I’ve typically heard during family reunions, wedding receptions, and long road trips with my family. 

 I’m actually listening to this song right now. 

 Due to its presence during these nostalgic moments, I’ve come to associate it with rest, comfort, and community. So, it shouldn’t surprise you when I say that this song captures my feelings about seeing all of you for the 2021 NCCEP/GEAR UP Virtual Annual Conference.

 The Annual Conference has become a “Happy Feelings” kind of experience for me. It is a time for GEAR UP practitioners, to come together in the spirit of connecting, celebrating, and reflecting. This year’s conference, while virtual, is sure to bring all of the happiness feels. 

 From July 19^th through July 21^st, the GEAR UP family will come together to engage with expert thought-partners, explore innovative tools, and to share the practices that have sustained GEAR UP’s impact. Understanding the need to recharge, the conference agenda offers opportunities to pause and reflect, address mental-health and well-being, and to show off your pets—yes, I said pets. Trust me, this is a conference that you don't want to miss this! 

 To begin the registration process, click here. To learn more about the conference, download an event invoice, access our FAQ, and to review the conference program, click here. 

 We are so excited to see you and to share in Happy Feelings. See you soon!