December
7, 2004
'Sister Cities' Funds Oakton International Study
Funds originally used to host exchange students from Cremona, Italy, and Nailuva, Fiji, two of Des Plaines' "sister cities," may now benefit students participating in the Study Abroad Program at Oakton Community College, officials announced.
"Since September 11, 2001, it has been a challenge to use these funds for their intended purpose," said Bea Cornelissen, a spokesperson for the Des Plaines Sister Cities Association.
To make use of the money - raised through garage sales, silent auctions, and private donations - the Des Plaines Sister Cities Board turned to Oakton's Educational Foundation, which provides scholarships, programs, and equipment not covered in the College's regular budget. The endowment allows students in Oakton's Study Abroad Program to access the funds in any year the money is not used to host a student from Nailuva or Cremona.
"This gift is a demonstration of how organizations can use their money creatively to provide access to educational opportunities," said Marilyn Appelson, executive director of the Educational Foundation. "We are grateful to Des Plaines Sister Cities for sharing generously with students in Oakton's Study Abroad Program."
Founded in 1985, the Des Plaines Sister Cities Association is affiliated with Sister Cities International, a nonprofit, citizen diplomacy network that creates and strengthens partnerships between U.S. and international communities. Based in Washington, D.C., Sister Cities International promotes sustainable development, youth involvement, cultural understanding, and humanitarian aid in more than 2,500 communities and 126 countries around the world.
For more information, contact the Educational Foundation at 847-635-1893.
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'Sister Cities' Funds Oakton International Study
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Community College. Last update 12/10/2004.