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Sister Cities

History:

In 1956, plans were forged for a worldwide sister cities organization, designed to promote friendship and international understanding through “People to People” contacts. Sister Cities International was established as a nonprofit citizen diplomacy network creating and strengthening partnerships between US and International communities in an effort to increase global cooperation at the municipal level, to promote cultural understanding and to stimulate economic development. SCI leads the movement for local community development volunteer action by motivating and empowering private citizens, municipal officials and business leaders to conduct long-term programs of mutual benefit. In 1990, the then Mayor, James B. Garland was approached by a local businessman, Kurt Scholler, asking why Gastonia was not involved in the International Sister Cities Program. “Jick” Garland contacted friend, Bill Lawson to spearhead a citizens group for the purpose of establishing a local Sister Cities nonprofit organization. The rest is history! Mayor Stultz continues to carry the flame of international friendship and understanding, supporting exchanges and program development.

Gotha, Germany History:

A formal Sister Cities Agreement was signed on April 19, 1993 with this city located in the central Thuringia area of Germany. With a population of approximately 60,000 Gotha and Gastonia continue a mutual flow of exchanges and programs. Since 1993, at least two student exchanges per year continue as the basis for our German Language Program. Teachers, artists, and professionals continue to enhance this long standing affiliation.

Santiago de Surco, Peru History:

One the evening of March 22, 2004 at the Schiele Museum, Santiago de Surco, Peru became Gastonia’s second Sister City. The formal agreement assures an offering of “culture, historical sites, delicious food and hospitality.” Santiago de Surco is a district of Lima with a population of 240,000, filled with diversity, unique beauty and energy. This relationship promises to enrich our local Latino resources.

Membership:

Gastonia Sister Cities has been sending students abroad for more than a decade. With the support of our Mayor, our City Government, Gaston County School and Private Schools and hundreds of volunteers we are able to provide this exciting yet educational program. Having the opportunity to travel to another country is an adventure of a lifetime for most high school students. It is our privilege to plan trips to place like Santiago de Surco, Peru and Gotha, Germany for students who work hard to achieve above average grades and exceptional behavior. We invite you to stop by our office to find out more about our Sister Cities program and to see how to become a part of this awesome adventure Get on Board with Gastonia Sister Cities as we experience other cultures and learn more about the world around us. Our efforts to promote “Peace Through People,” begins with YOU!

Young Artist Competition

Each fall, Gastonia Sister Cities contacts the area High Schools and Middle Schools with the opportunity to participate in an art contest sponsored by Sister Cities International. One winning piece is paired with a winning piece from our Sister Cities and competes on an international level. Look for information in your Art Classes in late September. Top prize is $100 to the student and Art teacher.

The 2010 Young Artist information will be distributed soon.

Contact Juliann Lehman, 704-854-6602, if you do not have an Art Class and want to participate.

2009 Young Artists

The 2009 Young Artists theme was "Your Path to Peace"

The winner was Chandler Haskins from North Gaston, teacher Kelly Somey

2010 Theme - Upcoming

Information will be sent to all Gaston County schools and publicized through local media. Young artists must be ages 13 through 18. Contact the Sister Cities office for additional requirements and information.

Language Classes

Gastonia Sister Cities offers German language classes

• Classes meet once per week for the purpose of training 9th-12th graders to serve as student ambassadors.
• Applications to this class are competitive and are available through guidance counselors at area high school.
• Classes will begin in October.
• Trip to Germany will be in June.
• Cost is based on airfare and extra side trips.

Program Application

For more information and an application, call Juliann Lehman
at 704-854-6602 or email juliannl@cityofgastonia.com

Volunteer Opportunities

Gastonia Sister Cities Needs You!

Hosting Visitors
• Special Events
• Meal Hosts
• Photographer
• Clerical Help
• Transportation
• Translating

Call Juliann Lehman, at 704-854-6602 and volunteer today or email the following information to juliannl@cityofgastonia.com

Name
Address
Area of Interest
Phone or email

Host Information

Host foreign visitors and see the world!

Gastonia Sister Cities hosts visitors throughout the year from Germany and occasionally other foreign countries. Usually, these visitors speak English, and want to experience American lifestyles. If you would be willing to share your home with one of our guests, we'd love to sign you up as a host home! Hosting is an opportunity to experience another culture from your own living room!

For more information, please contact

Juliann Lehman
Phone: 704.854.6602
Fax: 704.854.6683
juliannl@cityofgastonia.com

Membership Information

Membership in the Gastonia Sister Cities program is open to any person, business or organization interested in promoting and fostering the aims of the organization.

Questions or comments about this site? Email the webmaster.

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