Sister Cities of Parker announces board seat openings

Parker is in search of a few good ambassadors that will help elevate the town to an international level.

Sister Cities of Parker, a newly founded group that focuses on developing an educational, cultural, social and charitable relationship with an international city, has announced it has two board seats and plenty of membership openings available to the public.

"We are passionate about establishing an organized program that will help the citizens of Parker experience and appreciate not only the similarities but also the differences between us and people around the world," said Amy Holland, secretary for Sister Cities of Parker and host mother to two Iraqi high school students. "Hosting these students was an amazing experience and it truly brought the entire Parker community together."

Parker Town Council passed a resolution in 2007 that has made it possible for the town to become a sister city.

"(Town council) passed the resolution on the intent of forming an organization that was community run for citizens," said J.D. McCrumb, the special projects coordinator for the Town of Parker. "Town council has said they are committed to support the organization."

As a result, McCrumb said, Parker is committed to becoming a sister city.

"We put an advertisement in the town newsletter, and 24 people showed up on our first night," he said. "Since that time, we've written bylaws, outlined our purpose and began research on what kind of city Parker should have."

The group has determined education and culture will be its priority and main criteria for choosing its sister city.

"Xinjin, China, is currently in the active process of becoming Parker's sister city," McCrumb said.

While nothing has been finalized, and probably will not be settled for at least a year, Xinjin and Parker have been exchanging city information, goals and photos.

"We have to make sure we are a good fit, our interests are in line and that we can communicate before we can make a decision," McCrumb said. "I'd love to find more people in Parker interested in participating. In the last two years, quite a few (international) groups have started around town, and regionally. It's something you don't expect, but Douglas County is definitely an active global community."

Board member and member responsibilities would include organizing and developing educational and cultural projects that would bring awareness of Chinese culture to the Parker community.

Those interested in joining Sister Cities of Parker or becoming a board member can attend the group's next meeting at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 17 at Parker Town Hall, 20120 E. Mainstreet.

Anna Haislip: 303-954-2457 or haislipa@yourhub.com