Our History 

The San Carlos Sister City Association (SCSCA) was incorporated as a nonprofit in June 1998. Its mission is to promote global understanding and goodwill by building meaningful connections between San Carlos and communities around the world. Through people-to-people cultural exchanges, SCSCA aims to broaden perspectives, deepen mutual understanding, and support lasting international friendships.

Early sister city connections

SCSCA’s first sister city was Croydon, Victoria, Australia, established after a board president’s visit and signing ceremony. The relationship quickly grew, even featuring a live chess match played over Skype using real people as chess pieces. 

The next partnership was with Scandicci, Italy, near Florence. Although the agreement was signed, communication ended within a year due to a change in city leadership. During this period, SCSCA launched A Taste of Italy, a popular community fundraiser that supported student exchange scholarships for more than a decade.

SCSCA then partnered with San Carlos, Nicaragua, a small community on Lake Cocibolca. This was largely a humanitarian relationship. Board members visited to assess needs and brought back locally made crafts to test in California markets. The Nicaraguan mayor later visited San Carlos, highlighting her city’s lack of internet access. SCSCA gathered donated computers and supplies, shipped them to Nicaragua, and funded a year of satellite internet so residents could access a subsidized community service. 

Seeking a culturally similar partner, SCSCA next connected with Okotoks, Alberta, just south of Calgary. Planned exchanges ranged from students to city department heads, and the Okotoks City Manager visited San Carlos.

SCSCA’s fifth sister city was Metepec, Mexico, near Toluca. The relationship began warmly, with official ceremonies and enthusiastic hosting by local artists and community leaders. Metepec high school students visited San Carlos for two weeks, and San Carlos students later stayed with Metepec families. 

Omura, Japan - A lasting connection

SCSCA’s most successful and enduring partnership began with Omura, Nagasaki, Japan, recommended by the Japanese Consulate in San Francisco. Interest was mutual from the start: the mayor of Omura and his delegation visited San Carlos, planting a cherry tree in City Hall Park to mark the beginning of the relationship.

SCSCA and Omura soon launched a reciprocal student exchange, sending four San Carlos high school students to Japan each summer while hosting four Ōmura students in return. This enriching program paused during COVID-19, but resumed in the summer of 2024.

Continuing the tradition

SCSCA’s history underscores that meaningful sister-city relationships require dedication, communication, and shared commitment. For those enthusiastic about cultural exchange and international friendship, we welcome new members and participants.