Category: Events & Workshops

Summer Leadership Academies Return to Fort Worth

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 8. Students from Eswatini and Italy, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 33rd International Leadership Academy. The academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through teambuilding and problem-solving using diplomacy.

Since 1989, the ILA has brought young people from Fort Worth’s nine sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 50 participants will converge at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Fort Worth July 16 – 31 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance.

Participants will live at the hotel and share a room with students from another country. They will attend classes that are designed to challenge stereotypes, highlight cultures, promote diplomatic dialogue, develop leadership skills, and solve global problems. Activities will also include visits to area businesses, museums, and other cultural venues specific to Fort Worth, as well as a community service project.

This year marks the 16th year of ILA’s middle school program, the Jr. International Leadership Academy held July 10 – 15. College students will serve as facilitators for Fort Worth students who will discuss the same issues as their high school counterparts, gaining international perspectives.

“The students will be challenged to improve and refine their leadership skills and learn how diverse cultures can support common goals. It’s a tremendous opportunity for personal growth,” said Nancy Marchant, ILA and JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremony for ILA will take place July 30, 10 a.m. at the Texas A&M University School of Law and is free and open to the public.

2022-06-22 10:44

Summer Leadership Academies Return to Fort Worth

Fort Worth, TX – High school students from around the world will descend on Fort Worth starting July 8. Students from Eswatini and Italy, along with Fort Worth students, will be in Fort Worth for the 33rd International Leadership Academy. The academy’s goal is to increase communication and leadership skills through teambuilding and problem-solving using diplomacy.

Since 1989, the ILA has brought young people from Fort Worth’s nine sister cities to the area to discuss pressing global issues. This year, nearly 50 participants will converge at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Fort Worth July 16 – 31 to share their cultures and learn about citizen diplomacy and its importance.

Participants will live at the hotel and share a room with students from another country. They will attend classes that are designed to challenge stereotypes, highlight cultures, promote diplomatic dialogue, develop leadership skills, and solve global problems. Activities will also include visits to area businesses, museums, and other cultural venues specific to Fort Worth, as well as a community service project.

This year marks the 16th year of ILA’s middle school program, the Jr. International Leadership Academy held July 10 – 15. College students will serve as facilitators for Fort Worth students who will discuss the same issues as their high school counterparts, gaining international perspectives.

“The students will be challenged to improve and refine their leadership skills and learn how diverse cultures can support common goals. It’s a tremendous opportunity for personal growth,” said Nancy Marchant, ILA and JILA Coordinator.

The closing ceremony for ILA will take place July 30, 10 a.m. at the Texas A&M University School of Law and is free and open to the public.

36th Annual Meeting a Big Success

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (Sept. 20, 2021) – Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 36th Annual Meeting was held earlier this month at the Hilton Hotel, attended by over 200 community leaders and members.

A major announcement was made regarding the creation of the Connect Globally Endowment for International Relations which was established by a generous gift from Connie Beck and Frank Tilley in memory of their parents James and Janeyl Beck and Gordon and Mable Tilley. The endowment was created to ensure that the valuable work done by Fort Worth Sister Cities International is sustained well into the future. For information about the endowment click here.

Fort Worth Sister Cities also honored several individuals and organizations for their work in the community and promotion of Fort Worth around the world.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Cindy Johnson. Johnson helped lead Sister Cities’ Long Range Planning effort by creating an exciting vision of the future. She helped create a new vision for Fort Worth Sister Cities International to become a hub for international relations in the City of Fort Worth.

MedStar Mobile Healthcare was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement. During the pandemic, MedStar donated an ambulance to Fort Worth’s sister city of Toluca, Mexico. Not only was it used to help during the pandemic, but it is now being used to assist victims of domestic violence.

Milena Razack received the prestigious Volunteer of the Year Award. Razack began by home hosting many students, as well as holding events in her home as part of the planning team for the International Leadership Academies in 2020 and in 2021. Parents of youth ambassadors often get involved in programs by home hosting.

“In an increasingly divided world, Sister Cities brings individuals, cultures and countries together for the benefit of all,” said Becky Renfro Borbolla, Board Chairman. “We are grateful for these committed volunteers and organizations who know what it means to be good citizen diplomats.”

See the photos from the 36th Annual Meeting.

2021-09-20 03:49

36th Annual Meeting a Big Success

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (Sept. 20, 2021) – Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 36th Annual Meeting was held earlier this month at the Hilton Hotel, attended by over 200 community leaders and members.

A major announcement was made regarding the creation of the Connect Globally Endowment for International Relations which was established by a generous gift from Connie Beck and Frank Tilley in memory of their parents James and Janeyl Beck and Gordon and Mable Tilley. The endowment was created to ensure that the valuable work done by Fort Worth Sister Cities International is sustained well into the future. For information about the endowment click here.

Fort Worth Sister Cities also honored several individuals and organizations for their work in the community and promotion of Fort Worth around the world.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Cindy Johnson. Johnson helped lead Sister Cities’ Long Range Planning effort by creating an exciting vision of the future. She helped create a new vision for Fort Worth Sister Cities International to become a hub for international relations in the City of Fort Worth.

MedStar Mobile Healthcare was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement. During the pandemic, MedStar donated an ambulance to Fort Worth’s sister city of Toluca, Mexico. Not only was it used to help during the pandemic, but it is now being used to assist victims of domestic violence.

Milena Razack received the prestigious Volunteer of the Year Award. Razack began by home hosting many students, as well as holding events in her home as part of the planning team for the International Leadership Academies in 2020 and in 2021. Parents of youth ambassadors often get involved in programs by home hosting.

“In an increasingly divided world, Sister Cities brings individuals, cultures and countries together for the benefit of all,” said Becky Renfro Borbolla, Board Chairman. “We are grateful for these committed volunteers and organizations who know what it means to be good citizen diplomats.”

See the photos from the 36th Annual Meeting.

Congratulations to Trivia Night Winners

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

If you missed last week’s trivia competition, you missed a lot of fun and a lot of smart people who were engaged in this internationally-focused game. Dr. Michael Roemer led 16 teams through three rounds of challenging questions ranging from flag trivia to general geography. Congratulations to our winners!

  • 1st Place – Will Lourcey
  • 2nd Place – Saanvi Pathikonda and family
  • 3rd Place – Elizabeth Duque and Nyasha Muwalo

Will is currently President of our youth organization Fort Worth Youth International and is a senior at Paschal High School. Saanvi is a student at Trinity Valley School, and Elizabeth Duque and Nyasha Muwalo, who attend Chisholm Trail High School, are also on our youth board. Did you notice? All three winners are students. We must be doing something right because we’ve got some very smart kids involved in our programs!

John Wells won the prize for having the most interesting international item to share. John showed us a wood carving of “The Thinking Man” he picked up on his travels to Madagascar. There were many more very interesting items seen including a beautiful crystal-etched bell made in Hungary brought by Eva Baluska and an ostrich egg with Egyptian hieroglyphics displayed by Mary Palko.

As far as interesting travel stories, you had to be there to appreciate it but, a few included a Fort Worth mayor’s feet being tickled by a Japanese gentleman during the night when she slept, and a former Chairwoman standing on her head in front of the Trevi Fountain in Rome, in a glass elevator in Hong Kong, and on top of a sand dune in the Arabian desert near Wadi Rum.

Many thanks to all who helped gather prizes and suggestions for questions. It was a lot of fun and educational at the same time. A special thank you to Libby Watson, Shanna Granger, and Nyja and Richard Roby for their donation of prizes.

Stay tuned for more trivia night opportunities in the future!

2020-09-29 10:05

Congratulations to Trivia Night Winners

If you missed last week’s trivia competition, you missed a lot of fun and a lot of smart people who were engaged in this internationally-focused game. Dr. Michael Roemer led 16 teams through three rounds of challenging questions ranging from flag trivia to general geography. Congratulations to our winners!

  • 1st Place – Will Lourcey
  • 2nd Place – Saanvi Pathikonda and family
  • 3rd Place – Elizabeth Duque and Nyasha Muwalo

Will is currently President of our youth organization Fort Worth Youth International and is a senior at Paschal High School. Saanvi is a student at Trinity Valley School, and Elizabeth Duque and Nyasha Muwalo, who attend Chisholm Trail High School, are also on our youth board. Did you notice? All three winners are students. We must be doing something right because we’ve got some very smart kids involved in our programs!

John Wells won the prize for having the most interesting international item to share. John showed us a wood carving of “The Thinking Man” he picked up on his travels to Madagascar. There were many more very interesting items seen including a beautiful crystal-etched bell made in Hungary brought by Eva Baluska and an ostrich egg with Egyptian hieroglyphics displayed by Mary Palko.

As far as interesting travel stories, you had to be there to appreciate it but, a few included a Fort Worth mayor’s feet being tickled by a Japanese gentleman during the night when she slept, and a former Chairwoman standing on her head in front of the Trevi Fountain in Rome, in a glass elevator in Hong Kong, and on top of a sand dune in the Arabian desert near Wadi Rum.

Many thanks to all who helped gather prizes and suggestions for questions. It was a lot of fun and educational at the same time. A special thank you to Libby Watson, Shanna Granger, and Nyja and Richard Roby for their donation of prizes.

Stay tuned for more trivia night opportunities in the future!

Sister Cities Partnering with FWISD for Dual Language Camp

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas — Local elementary students receiving dual language enrichment

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will welcome 10 university students and two educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education this week for the Dual Language Immersion Camp for elementary students in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD (FWISD). The Toluca students will act as international facilitators for the three-week camp June 11-28.

This year’s theme is Art: An Expression of Language and will provide summer enrichment for FWISD students in dual language studies to increase language and literacy across the content areas.

All Toluca facilitators and educators are being home hosted by local families in order to give these visitors a glimpse into American life and to give the hosting families exposure to the culture of Toluca, as well.

While here the group will also explore local cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality. Visits include the Stockyards, AT&T Stadium, the Kimbell Art Museum, Concert in the Gardens, Sundance Square Plaza and more.

The closing ceremony will take place on June 28 at Burton Hill Elementary School.

2018-05-31 10:47

Sister Cities Partnering with FWISD for Dual Language Camp

Fort Worth, Texas — Local elementary students receiving dual language enrichment

Fort Worth Sister Cities International will welcome 10 university students and two educators from Toluca, Mexico’s Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education this week for the Dual Language Immersion Camp for elementary students in partnership with the Fort Worth ISD (FWISD). The Toluca students will act as international facilitators for the three-week camp June 11-28.

This year’s theme is Art: An Expression of Language and will provide summer enrichment for FWISD students in dual language studies to increase language and literacy across the content areas.

All Toluca facilitators and educators are being home hosted by local families in order to give these visitors a glimpse into American life and to give the hosting families exposure to the culture of Toluca, as well.

While here the group will also explore local cultural attractions and experience true Texas hospitality. Visits include the Stockyards, AT&T Stadium, the Kimbell Art Museum, Concert in the Gardens, Sundance Square Plaza and more.

The closing ceremony will take place on June 28 at Burton Hill Elementary School.

US/Russian Relations From An Insider’s Perspective

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX – Timely topic for Sister Cities forum

Join Fort Worth Sister Cities International to hear about Russia Today from an Insider’s Perspective, October 11, noon at Texas Christian University’s Dee J. Kelly Alumni & Visitors Center. The event is open to the public and tickets can be purchased at www.fwsistercities.org/event/us-russia.

The event will include an analysis of US and Russia relations by Sharon Tennison, President and Founder of the Center for Citizen Initiatives (CCI).

CCI’s mission is to conduct a series of Citizen-to-Citizen initiatives and exchanges, buttressed by official media PR and social media networks across America and across Russia. They wish to bring the two peoples together, including those in leadership to listen and learn and hammer out ways to cooperate rather than plot war against the other.

“After hearing Tennison speak on this subject earlier this year, we decided to host her in Fort Worth to hear about what it’s really like on the ground in Russia today and how we can help with more peaceful relations,” said Mae Ferguson, President/CEO of Fort Worth Sister Cities.

Tennison has written a book on the subject, entitled The Power of Impossible Ideas: Ordinary Citizens’ Extraordinary Efforts to Avert International Crises and travels back and forth frequently between the two countries.

A small group of Fort Worth participants may travel to Russia in the Spring 2018.

For more information about joining the mission to Russia and to make your reservation for the luncheon, please contact Danielle at 817/632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

2017-10-05 10:50

US/Russian Relations From An Insider’s Perspective

Fort Worth, TX – Timely topic for Sister Cities forum

Join Fort Worth Sister Cities International to hear about Russia Today from an Insider’s Perspective, October 11, noon at Texas Christian University’s Dee J. Kelly Alumni & Visitors Center. The event is open to the public and tickets can be purchased at www.fwsistercities.org/event/us-russia.

The event will include an analysis of US and Russia relations by Sharon Tennison, President and Founder of the Center for Citizen Initiatives (CCI).

CCI’s mission is to conduct a series of Citizen-to-Citizen initiatives and exchanges, buttressed by official media PR and social media networks across America and across Russia. They wish to bring the two peoples together, including those in leadership to listen and learn and hammer out ways to cooperate rather than plot war against the other.

“After hearing Tennison speak on this subject earlier this year, we decided to host her in Fort Worth to hear about what it’s really like on the ground in Russia today and how we can help with more peaceful relations,” said Mae Ferguson, President/CEO of Fort Worth Sister Cities.

Tennison has written a book on the subject, entitled The Power of Impossible Ideas: Ordinary Citizens’ Extraordinary Efforts to Avert International Crises and travels back and forth frequently between the two countries.

A small group of Fort Worth participants may travel to Russia in the Spring 2018.

For more information about joining the mission to Russia and to make your reservation for the luncheon, please contact Danielle at 817/632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

Fort Worth Elects Global Leaders

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX – Sundance Square’s Johnny Campbell Leads Sister Cities

Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 32nd Annual Meeting, are Secretary, Casey Dyer Oliver, Texas A&M University; Treasurer, Frank Tilley, SeatonHill; Development Chair, Julie Johncox, JP Solutions; Government Relations Chair, Michael Crain, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty; and Exchanges & Outreach Chair, Dr. Sheryl Harris, Tarrant County College.

New board members include: PJ Budler, the Cattle Market; Mark Davidovich, JP Morgan; Vishal Gandhi, Hillwood; Ratna Goenardi, Sugar Biscuit Cakery; Andrew Johnsen, BNSF Railway Company; Cindy Milrany, Freese & Nichols; Andy Roseliep, Bank of America; Andy Taft, Downtown Fort Worth, Inc.; and Libby Watson.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Greg Irwin.  The Fort Worth Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas and Women’s Policy Forum were awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement and Sherri Whiting was awarded the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award.

Tim Quigley, Chairman of the national office of Sister Cities International in Washington, D.C., spoke to the Members Circle about the importance of sister city relationships and the close connection with Department of State priorities. “When public policy fails, citizen diplomacy is our connective tissue,” Quigley told the crowd.

Board members returning for a 2nd term include: Veronica Chavez Law, Michael Parker, and Lu Pham. City chairs include: Ratna Goenardi, Bandung; Greg Jackson, Budapest; Nommo Donald, Mbabane; Libby Watson, Nagaoka; Tom Law, Jr., Reggio Emilia; Anette Soto, Toluca; and Hannah Behrens, Trier. 

Fort Worth Sister Cities celebrated raising $300,000 for its annual Members Circle campaign with the help of Campaign Chair, Bob Jameson, and is setting a launch for the 2018 campaign for January 2, 2018. 

The Members Circle is a thriving network of individuals, organizations, corporations, and community leaders committed to expanding global relationships for peace and prosperity at home and abroad. For information on joining the Members Circle, contact Danielle at 817-632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

2017-09-25 10:49

Fort Worth Elects Global Leaders

Fort Worth, TX – Sundance Square’s Johnny Campbell Leads Sister Cities

Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 32nd Annual Meeting, are Secretary, Casey Dyer Oliver, Texas A&M University; Treasurer, Frank Tilley, SeatonHill; Development Chair, Julie Johncox, JP Solutions; Government Relations Chair, Michael Crain, Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty; and Exchanges & Outreach Chair, Dr. Sheryl Harris, Tarrant County College.

New board members include: PJ Budler, the Cattle Market; Mark Davidovich, JP Morgan; Vishal Gandhi, Hillwood; Ratna Goenardi, Sugar Biscuit Cakery; Andrew Johnsen, BNSF Railway Company; Cindy Milrany, Freese & Nichols; Andy Roseliep, Bank of America; Andy Taft, Downtown Fort Worth, Inc.; and Libby Watson.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Greg Irwin.  The Fort Worth Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas and Women’s Policy Forum were awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement and Sherri Whiting was awarded the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award.

Tim Quigley, Chairman of the national office of Sister Cities International in Washington, D.C., spoke to the Members Circle about the importance of sister city relationships and the close connection with Department of State priorities. “When public policy fails, citizen diplomacy is our connective tissue,” Quigley told the crowd.

Board members returning for a 2nd term include: Veronica Chavez Law, Michael Parker, and Lu Pham. City chairs include: Ratna Goenardi, Bandung; Greg Jackson, Budapest; Nommo Donald, Mbabane; Libby Watson, Nagaoka; Tom Law, Jr., Reggio Emilia; Anette Soto, Toluca; and Hannah Behrens, Trier. 

Fort Worth Sister Cities celebrated raising $300,000 for its annual Members Circle campaign with the help of Campaign Chair, Bob Jameson, and is setting a launch for the 2018 campaign for January 2, 2018. 

The Members Circle is a thriving network of individuals, organizations, corporations, and community leaders committed to expanding global relationships for peace and prosperity at home and abroad. For information on joining the Members Circle, contact Danielle at 817-632-7106 or danielle@fwsistercities.org.

Mayor’s International Dinner Big Success 2017

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, Texas – Sister Cities Recognizes Global Award Recipients 

Mayor Betsy Price and Dinner Chairs, Becky & Henry Borbolla, lead the crowd of nearly 400 through an evening of international cuisine and entertainment as Sister Cities recognized and honored individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to citizen diplomacy, global understanding, world political stability, and international commerce.

Awards were presented to: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company – THE GLOBAL NEXUS AWARD Catholic Charities of Fort Worth –  THE GLOBAL CITIZENS AWARD Bob Jameson – GLOBAL IMPACT AWARD

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company received the Global Nexus Award as good representatives of Fort Worth to the world, creating commerce and a healthier community for all.

Catholic Charities of Fort Worth was given the Global Citizens Award for their strong representation of Fort Worth by creating a positive view of the U.S. through educational and humanitarian initiatives.

Bob Jameson received the Global Impact Award for his long-time service to the Fort Worth community and development of international partnerships through global business, culture, and tourism.

The event was made possible by the Fort Worth Sister Cities 2017 Members Circle, a network of individuals, organizations, corporations and community leaders committed to expanding global relationships for peace and prosperity at home and abroad.  Funding and in-kind support from the City of Fort Worth plays a key role in its mission, but most work is made possible through public support through the Members Circle.

The dinner was held June 1 to celebrate 32 years of service by Sister Cities to the City of Fort Worth.  Entertainment was provided by the Taiko Drummers, Mariachi Real de Alvarez, Andrea Tullis from the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, KJRI Dancers from the Consul General of Indonesia’s office, Swahili Carmel Choir from Christ Chapel Bible Church, and representatives from each of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities.

2017-06-13 08:48

Mayor’s International Dinner Big Success 2017

Fort Worth, Texas – Sister Cities Recognizes Global Award Recipients 

Mayor Betsy Price and Dinner Chairs, Becky & Henry Borbolla, lead the crowd of nearly 400 through an evening of international cuisine and entertainment as Sister Cities recognized and honored individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to citizen diplomacy, global understanding, world political stability, and international commerce.

Awards were presented to: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company – THE GLOBAL NEXUS AWARD Catholic Charities of Fort Worth –  THE GLOBAL CITIZENS AWARD Bob Jameson – GLOBAL IMPACT AWARD

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company received the Global Nexus Award as good representatives of Fort Worth to the world, creating commerce and a healthier community for all.

Catholic Charities of Fort Worth was given the Global Citizens Award for their strong representation of Fort Worth by creating a positive view of the U.S. through educational and humanitarian initiatives.

Bob Jameson received the Global Impact Award for his long-time service to the Fort Worth community and development of international partnerships through global business, culture, and tourism.

The event was made possible by the Fort Worth Sister Cities 2017 Members Circle, a network of individuals, organizations, corporations and community leaders committed to expanding global relationships for peace and prosperity at home and abroad.  Funding and in-kind support from the City of Fort Worth plays a key role in its mission, but most work is made possible through public support through the Members Circle.

The dinner was held June 1 to celebrate 32 years of service by Sister Cities to the City of Fort Worth.  Entertainment was provided by the Taiko Drummers, Mariachi Real de Alvarez, Andrea Tullis from the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, KJRI Dancers from the Consul General of Indonesia’s office, Swahili Carmel Choir from Christ Chapel Bible Church, and representatives from each of Fort Worth’s eight sister cities.

Sister Cities Youth Group Partners with Catholic Charities

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX – Partnering on an Easter Egg Hunt for refugee families 

This week, the Fort Worth Sister Cities International Youth Group is partnering with Catholic Charities for their annual community service project.

The students will work on the Catholic Charities Need YPO Annual Event, Spring Fling.

Need YPO, the young professionals arm of Catholic Charities, is hosting an Easter egg hunt for refugee clients and their families.

“This event gives volunteers a chance to meet and play with some of the refugee families Catholic Charities has helped resettle,” said Jennifer DeHaro, service chair for Need YPO. “It shows support for our refugee populations in Fort Worth and gives a unique multicultural experience to those native to this city.”

Sister Cities youth will provide and manage carnival games, including several international varieties, at the event. The students also raised money to purchase emergency preparedness supplies to distribute such as flashlights, first aid kits, and batteries for the refugee families.

“We hope to make an impact on these refugee families because they have been through so much and deserve to relax and have a good time,” Fort Worth Youth International community outreach officer, Nate Wallace said. “The Youth Board is looking forward to this project and is ready to throw the best Easter egg hunt around for these amazing and inspiring families.”

Students ranging from 6th to 12th grade make up Fort Worth Youth International, the youth group of Fort Worth Sister Cities.

“Participating in the youth group has been one of the highlights of high school because it is incredibly meaningful,” Alexandra Galloway said. “Being in the Youth Group has given me eye-opening opportunities to give back to the Fort Worth community in ways I had never considered before such as working with refugees.”

The Easter Egg hunt will be at the La Dera Palms Apartments on April 20 at 5:30 p.m.

2017-04-20 11:42

Sister Cities Youth Group Partners with Catholic Charities

Fort Worth, TX – Partnering on an Easter Egg Hunt for refugee families 

This week, the Fort Worth Sister Cities International Youth Group is partnering with Catholic Charities for their annual community service project.

The students will work on the Catholic Charities Need YPO Annual Event, Spring Fling.

Need YPO, the young professionals arm of Catholic Charities, is hosting an Easter egg hunt for refugee clients and their families.

“This event gives volunteers a chance to meet and play with some of the refugee families Catholic Charities has helped resettle,” said Jennifer DeHaro, service chair for Need YPO. “It shows support for our refugee populations in Fort Worth and gives a unique multicultural experience to those native to this city.”

Sister Cities youth will provide and manage carnival games, including several international varieties, at the event. The students also raised money to purchase emergency preparedness supplies to distribute such as flashlights, first aid kits, and batteries for the refugee families.

“We hope to make an impact on these refugee families because they have been through so much and deserve to relax and have a good time,” Fort Worth Youth International community outreach officer, Nate Wallace said. “The Youth Board is looking forward to this project and is ready to throw the best Easter egg hunt around for these amazing and inspiring families.”

Students ranging from 6th to 12th grade make up Fort Worth Youth International, the youth group of Fort Worth Sister Cities.

“Participating in the youth group has been one of the highlights of high school because it is incredibly meaningful,” Alexandra Galloway said. “Being in the Youth Group has given me eye-opening opportunities to give back to the Fort Worth community in ways I had never considered before such as working with refugees.”

The Easter Egg hunt will be at the La Dera Palms Apartments on April 20 at 5:30 p.m.

Mayor’s International Dinner & Global Awards Announced for 2017

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities honors global award winners & donors

Mayor Betsy Price and Dinner Chairs Becky & Henry Borbolla will lead the annual Mayor’s International Dinner on June 1 at the Omni Hotel as Sister Cities honors individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to citizen diplomacy, global understanding, world political stability, and international commerce.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics will be awarded the Global Nexus Award recognizing businesses that are connected globally and are good representatives of Fort Worth to the world creating commerce and a healthier community for all.

Catholic Charities Fort Worth will receive the Global Citizens Award which is given to organizations that are connected globally and are good representatives of Fort Worth to the world creating a positive view of the U.S. through educational, humanitarian, or cultural initiatives.

“Much of our work encompasses our call to ‘welcome the stranger,’ and we are honored that this award not only reflects our passion to serve the vulnerable and marginalized, but also that it gives a platform and a voice to those who have become our neighbors here in Fort Worth,” said Heather Reynolds, President & CEO of Catholic Charities Fort Worth. “We are committed to work within the laws of our land and in conjunction with our city to continue to show what global citizenship can be when we partner together- a mutually beneficial experience.”

Bob Jameson, President and CEO of the Fort Worth Convention & Visitors Bureau will be honored with the Global Impact Award. This honor is given to individuals who have made significant efforts to promote Fort Worth globally and establish international partnerships. 

The dinner is made possible by the Members Circle which is comprised of individuals, businesses, and organizations who support the mission of Sister Cities with a financial contribution. For more information about the Members Circle, please visit weblink.donorperfect.com/memberscircle. If you would like to attend the dinner or get involved with the Members Circle, please contact Katie Wharry at 817-632-7101 or katie@fwsistercities.org.

2017-03-01 10:34

Mayor’s International Dinner & Global Awards Announced for 2017

Fort Worth, TX – Sister Cities honors global award winners & donors

Mayor Betsy Price and Dinner Chairs Becky & Henry Borbolla will lead the annual Mayor’s International Dinner on June 1 at the Omni Hotel as Sister Cities honors individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to citizen diplomacy, global understanding, world political stability, and international commerce.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics will be awarded the Global Nexus Award recognizing businesses that are connected globally and are good representatives of Fort Worth to the world creating commerce and a healthier community for all.

Catholic Charities Fort Worth will receive the Global Citizens Award which is given to organizations that are connected globally and are good representatives of Fort Worth to the world creating a positive view of the U.S. through educational, humanitarian, or cultural initiatives.

“Much of our work encompasses our call to ‘welcome the stranger,’ and we are honored that this award not only reflects our passion to serve the vulnerable and marginalized, but also that it gives a platform and a voice to those who have become our neighbors here in Fort Worth,” said Heather Reynolds, President & CEO of Catholic Charities Fort Worth. “We are committed to work within the laws of our land and in conjunction with our city to continue to show what global citizenship can be when we partner together- a mutually beneficial experience.”

Bob Jameson, President and CEO of the Fort Worth Convention & Visitors Bureau will be honored with the Global Impact Award. This honor is given to individuals who have made significant efforts to promote Fort Worth globally and establish international partnerships. 

The dinner is made possible by the Members Circle which is comprised of individuals, businesses, and organizations who support the mission of Sister Cities with a financial contribution. For more information about the Members Circle, please visit weblink.donorperfect.com/memberscircle. If you would like to attend the dinner or get involved with the Members Circle, please contact Katie Wharry at 817-632-7101 or katie@fwsistercities.org.

Expert to Discuss U.S.-Japan Security Alliance

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
FORT WORTH, TX – Sister Cities and Fort Worth Chamber team up on global security discussion

Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce invite you to join Ret. Colonel Grant Newsham, senior research fellow at the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies, for a talk on the crucial U.S.-Japan security alliance and the challenges the new administration may face in the region.  Time will also be given for discussion surrounding this issue following Newsham’s presentation.

Newsham will address the changing relationship with Japan militarily in the western pacific region and its impact, as well as what the U.S. can do moving forward with its international partners.

“Mr. Newsham’s talk is particularly relevant, given President Trump’s recent meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and their reaffirmation of mutual commitment towards political, military, and economic support for each other,” said Dr. Michael Roemer, Director of Global Initiatives at Trinity Valley School and the Nagaoka, Japan Chair for Fort Worth Sister Cities.

Newsham’s research focuses on Asia/Pacific defense and political and economic matters. He was the first U.S. Marine Liaison Officer to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. He previously served at Marine Forces Pacific Headquarters in Honolulu and has served twice as the U.S. Marine Attaché, U.S. Embassy Tokyo.

“Fort Worth is fortunate to have a guest of Colonel Newsham’s caliber to inform the community about current U.S./Japan relations,” said Melonye Whitson, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce’s Vice President of Economic Development. “Educating Fort Worth residents and businesses about the value of multi-cultural relationships prepares them for a global world economy.”

The luncheon will be held February 28 in the Fort Worth Camelia Room. Tickets can be purchased until February 24 at https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/us-japan-security-alliance/ or by calling the Sister Cities’ office at 817/632-7100.

2017-02-22 03:43

Expert to Discuss U.S.-Japan Security Alliance

FORT WORTH, TX – Sister Cities and Fort Worth Chamber team up on global security discussion

Fort Worth Sister Cities International and the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce invite you to join Ret. Colonel Grant Newsham, senior research fellow at the Japan Forum for Strategic Studies, for a talk on the crucial U.S.-Japan security alliance and the challenges the new administration may face in the region.  Time will also be given for discussion surrounding this issue following Newsham’s presentation.

Newsham will address the changing relationship with Japan militarily in the western pacific region and its impact, as well as what the U.S. can do moving forward with its international partners.

“Mr. Newsham’s talk is particularly relevant, given President Trump’s recent meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and their reaffirmation of mutual commitment towards political, military, and economic support for each other,” said Dr. Michael Roemer, Director of Global Initiatives at Trinity Valley School and the Nagaoka, Japan Chair for Fort Worth Sister Cities.

Newsham’s research focuses on Asia/Pacific defense and political and economic matters. He was the first U.S. Marine Liaison Officer to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. He previously served at Marine Forces Pacific Headquarters in Honolulu and has served twice as the U.S. Marine Attaché, U.S. Embassy Tokyo.

“Fort Worth is fortunate to have a guest of Colonel Newsham’s caliber to inform the community about current U.S./Japan relations,” said Melonye Whitson, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce’s Vice President of Economic Development. “Educating Fort Worth residents and businesses about the value of multi-cultural relationships prepares them for a global world economy.”

The luncheon will be held February 28 in the Fort Worth Camelia Room. Tickets can be purchased until February 24 at https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/us-japan-security-alliance/ or by calling the Sister Cities’ office at 817/632-7100.