Membership / Volunteer Opportunities/ Giving Back

About Our Program
For more than a decade, Gastonia Sister Cities has been sending local students abroad to represent our community. With the support of our Mayor, City Government, Gaston County Schools, private schools, and hundreds of volunteers, we provide an exciting and educational program that changes lives.

Traveling to another country is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for most high school students. We are proud to plan exchanges with our Sister Cities—Santiago de Surco, Peru, and Gotha, Germany—for students who excel academically and demonstrate outstanding character.

Membership

Join us in promoting “Peace Through People.” Board Membership offers opportunities to connect with others who share a passion for cultural exchange, international friendship, and student success.

Board of Directors meetings are held at the Garland Center, 150 S. York Street, 2nd Floor Bobbin Room, on the 4th Tuesday every other month at 4 p.m.:

• March 24, 2026

• May 26, 2026

Volunteer Opportunities

We welcome volunteers who want to make a difference! If you have experience—or interest—in any of the following areas, we’d love to connect:

• Student recruitment

• Pre-trip activities

• Community engagement

• Fundraising and scholarships

• Alumni outreach

Contact: becca.hurd@gastonianc.gov

Support Our Student Ambassadors

Each year, Sister Cities students serve as ambassadors for Gastonia abroad. These exchanges allow young people to explore new cultures, build lifelong friendships, and bring valuable perspectives back home.

Not every student has the financial means to participate. By donating to the Sister Cities Student Scholarship Fund, you can give hardworking students the chance to take part in this life-changing experience.

Every contribution, large or small, opens doors and helps shape the next generation of leaders, bridge-builders, and global citizens.