The mission of St. Charles Sister Cities Programs, Inc. – Irish Chapter is to encourage and implement high quality programs that foster mutual understanding, friendship and goodwill through cultural, social, business and educational exchanges between Saint Charles and Inishowen, Ireland.
Our objectives
1. To reach the St. Charles and metro St. Louis area by planning, promoting and running the Missouri River Irish Festival. This festival promotes all things Irish (music, dancing, food, beverages, crafts, cultural area). This festival, as well as providing a weekend of craic (that's Irish for fun) is also our main fundraiser to raise money.
2. To sponsor and support our high school student exchanges between high schools in St. Charles and Inishowen, Ireland. These two week exchanges provide an educational experience for students beyond any classroom.
3. To promote St. Patrick (the patron saint of Ireland) on St. Patrick's Day. Through our efforts of building and maintaining a float, we are able to celebrate this important day on the Irish calendar and have fun too!! To provide membership meetings that have an interest in our members to keep them involved in all we do.
4. To expand our people to people interaction by expanding opportunities to city personnel, businesses & fun tours in both St. Charles & Inishowen.
Our Activities include:
Missouri River Irish Festival
Student Exchanges
Parades
Membership Meetings 4-6 times a year - educational & social activities provided.
Membership opportunities to go to Ireland.
The Irish Chapter is dedicated to the partnership between St. Charles & Inishowen, Ireland. It is our desire to promote Irish culture and our sister city, Inishowen, Ireland.