This year marks a milestone for the Fountain Hills Sister Cities organization, celebrating its 25th anniversary since it was founded in 2000.

For a quarter-century, the group has built bridges of friendship, culture and service with its sister cities in Ataco, El Salvador; Dierdorf, Germany; and Zamosc, Poland.

These relationships have fostered deep connections and meaningful collaborations that have enriched both Fountain Hills and its partner communities abroad, according to a press release announcing the anniversary.

Looking back

Among its many achievements, Fountain Hills Sister Cities officials recall several standout moments that define its mission of international goodwill and community engagement. These include:

*Student and service trips: 40 Fountain Hills High School students and five adult volunteers traveled to Ataco, El Salvador, to help rebuild homes destroyed by devastating floods — a project that left lasting impressions on all involved.

*International exchanges: Delegations of adults have traveled to Dierdorf and Zamosc to meet with local leaders and strengthen civic and cultural ties.

*Hosting global leaders: Fountain Hills has welcomed visiting officials from all three sister cities on multiple occasions, showcasing the community’s hospitality and spirit of cooperation.

*Humanitarian fundraising: The organization raised $40,000 to assist Ukrainian refugees through its partnership in Zamosc, a city only about 30 miles from the border with Ukraine, and $8,000 to address food insecurity among the elderly in Ataco.

*Student exchanges: Ongoing student programs between Fountain Hills, Dierdorf, and Zamosc have nurtured lasting friendships and cultural understanding among young people across continents.

*Cultural celebrations: The town has embraced diversity by celebrating German, Hispanic, and Polish heritage months, each recognized with an official proclamation by the mayor.

*Community events: The ever-popular Fountain Hills Oktoberfest continues to bring residents together in a celebration of international culture and camaraderie.

Looking Ahead

As Fountain Hills Sister Cities reflects on a quarter-century of global connection, the group is already looking to the future — actively exploring a potential fourth sister city in Italy to further expand its international network, according to the release.

“Each of our sister city relationships has brought something unique to Fountain Hills,” said Christine Colley, President of the organization. “We’ve seen how cultural exchange and service can unite people across languages and borders. Our next chapter promises to be just as exciting.”

For more information about Fountain Hills Sister Cities, or to get involved in upcoming events, visit their website, fountainhillssistercities.org or follow them on social media.