......In The World
President Eisenhower proposed a people-to-people organization in 1956 to bring cities together to increase global understanding and enhance world peace. In 1967, this initiative became Sister CIties International (SCI) which now represents over 700 U.S. cities in more than 2,100 communities around the world.

......In Our City
In 1981, Suffolk County, England became Suffolk's first sister city as a result of the personal interest in the Sister Cities concept by Virginia's Governor, Mills E. Godwin. A native of our city, Governor Godwin believed that Sister Cities would benefit the community culturally and educationally. Suffolk's second sister city relationship with Oderzo, Italy, began in 1995 because of one man, Amedeo Obici. Mr. Obici was a native of Oderzo and the founder of Planters Nut and Chocolate Company in Suffolk.

The Sister Cities program opens doors which can benefit governmental, cultural, educational, economic, and youth initiatives between nations. It is governed by seven appointed commissioners and supported by Friends of Suffolk Sister Cities and a youth organization.

......In Your Life
Enrich your life by making friends around the world and expanding your cultural, civic and educational horizons.