VSCA Hosts Annual Membership Meeting, Reflecting on a Year of Growth and Looking Ahead to Future Initiatives

Vallejo, California [January 25, 2025] – On Saturday, January 25th, the Vallejo Sister City Association (VSCA) gathered for its annual membership meeting, reflecting on the events and accomplishments of the past year and unveiling plans for the year ahead. The meeting, which took place at the VSCA headquarters, offered members a chance to look back on the organization’s active 2024 and discuss the direction of future initiatives aimed at furthering international friendship and cooperation.

VSCA’s mission—promoting peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation, one individual and one community at a time—continues to be at the heart of its work. This mission aligns closely with the goals of Sister Cities International, a non-profit network that strengthens partnerships between U.S. communities and international counterparts. As part of this vision, VSCA continues to support the Vallejo Sister City Commission through fundraising, event planning, and offering support for both local and international programs.

The meeting featured key addresses from prominent members of the organization. VSCA President Norma Placido opened the event, sharing a heartfelt review of the year’s highlights and a vision for the future. Elissa Shanks Stewart, Chair of the Vallejo Sister City Commission, gave an update on the commission’s progress and activities, while Helen-Marie Gordon, the new council liaison, expressed her enthusiasm for the ongoing partnership between Vallejo and its sister cities around the globe.

One of the key points of discussion was VSCA’s delegation to Baguio City, Philippines, planned for February. This marks an exciting opportunity to strengthen ties with Vallejo’s international partners.

Reflecting on 2024, VSCA celebrated a year of meaningful international engagement. Notable efforts included:

Principal Masahiro’s Visit: A successful follow-up to the Sister Schools program, bringing educational exchange to the forefront.
Annual Japanese Tea Gathering: A community event that celebrated Japanese culture and fostered deeper connections within Vallejo.
Black and White Gala: The much-anticipated gala that brought together supporters and community members to celebrate the VSCA’s mission.
Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative: A program hosted by VSCA that engaged young leaders from Southeast Asia and showcased Vallejo’s commitment to global diplomacy.
Ensenada, Mexico, Adopted as Vallejo’s 7th Sister City: A historic milestone for VSCA, expanding its global network.
Participation in Pista sa Nayon at the Solano County Fair and the 4th of July Parade: Both events were key to celebrating Vallejo’s cultural diversity and international outreach.
18th Annual International Dinner: An event where local community members shared a meal while celebrating cultural exchange.
Delegation Visits to Jincheon, South Korea: A delegation from Vallejo visited Jincheon, strengthening bonds with Vallejo’s sister city in South Korea.
Korean Delegations from Kangwonland and Gyeonggi Province: Vallejo welcomed delegations of educators from Korea, furthering the educational exchange programs.

Looking ahead to 2025, VSCA plans to continue building on these successes, working to engage even more community members in sister city programs and cross-cultural experiences. The upcoming delegation to Baguio City, Philippines, promises to be a major highlight, fostering even greater connections with Vallejo’s growing international network.

With a focus on peace, mutual respect, and cooperation, the Vallejo Sister City Association remains dedicated to making a positive impact on the world—one community at a time.