‘Welcome to What's Possible’ – The UPS Store® Celebrates National Make a Difference Day with Ninth Rose Parade® Float

In celebration of National Make a Difference Day later this week, The UPS Store, Inc. is proud to announce, "Welcome to What's Possible," its float entry for the 138th Rose Parade® presented by Honda.

The float design celebrates a powerful truth: every journey toward something great begins with a moment of belief and a spark of inspiration. The UPS Store understands the value of what mentorship can do for someone, and by working with Junior Achievement USA, that stance comes to life. Since 2022, franchisees at more than 5,600 The UPS Store locations nationwide have collected more than $10 million in customer donations at checkout for Junior Achievement programming, equipping school-aged children with lessons in financial literacy, career readiness and entrepreneurship.

Participating for the ninth time in the iconic New Year’s Day parade in Pasadena, California, The UPS Store will be honoring current small business owners and future small business owners through their creative float design work. At the center of the float stands a visionary wizard – a symbol of wisdom, support and possibility, mirroring how The UPS Store locations serve customers. Beside the wizard perch several owls whose infinite wisdom illuminates the path toward knowledge and growth.

Together, these float elements tell the story that defines The UPS Store community: when guidance meets opportunity, potential becomes reality.

To further embody the spirit of this year's National Make a Difference Day, The UPS Store is honoring franchise owner Kristy Abreu of Oakland, New Jersey and Rith Charles of Junior Achievement of New Jersey. The duo was selected by The UPS Store for their community impact and future potential, respectively, and will represent their communities and contributions to their home state of New Jersey onsite at the 2027 Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game.

Kristy Abreu brings the spirit of possibility to life at The UPS Store #8020 in Oakland, N.J. where she uses 3D printing and conversations with young customers to introduce them to design, technology and entrepreneurship. Rith Charles, an outstanding student of Junior Achievement of New Jersey and JROTC Battalion Commander with more than 300 hours of community service, exemplifies the promise of the next generation.

"We're honored to return to the Rose Parade this New Year’s Day to celebrate the power of mentorship and possibility," said Brett Battes, President of The UPS Store, Inc. "Every day, across our more than 5,600 locations, we welcome customers, support small business owners and champion young entrepreneurs of tomorrow. This float recognizes the potential of everyone who walks through our doors and gives them the tools to succeed."

The vibrant float was designed and built by the expert team at Artistic Entertainment Services (AES). Measuring approximately 55 feet long and 32 feet high, the float will feature an elaborate floral design that brings the narrative of guidance and transformation to life. Rich jewel tones and hot pinks will adorn the vessel, including more than 30,000 roses, complemented by a wide variety of florals, seeds, fruits, vegetables and lush greenery that create visual depth and harmony.

"The design of 'Welcome to What's Possible' captures something powerful," said Craig Bugajski, CEO and President of AES. "Every detail was crafted to tell a story of belief and possibility. When you see this float on New Year’s Day, you'll witness more than beautiful florals and a show-stopping design; you'll see a magical moment where mentorship and opportunity converge."