The Havre de Grace Twinning Association (HDG Twinning) is a community-based organization that fosters international partnerships and cultural exchanges between two or more towns or cities, known as "twinned” communities. The primary purpose of a Twinning Association is to promote understanding, friendship, and cooperation between communities from different regions and cultures.
Our Beginnings
The Havre de Grace Twinning Association is the primary focus of the Cultural Exchange Commission of the City of Havre de Grace. HdG Twinning also operates as a committee under Community Projects of Havre de Grace as a non-profit organization. HdG Twinning’s formal relationship with the Twinning Association of Mumbles (TAM) began in September 2019, when the Charter declaring the twinning relationship was signed by representatives of both organizations during HdG Twinning’s Inaugural visit to Mumbles.
Members of TAM visited Havre de Grace in the fall of 2022. During that visit, the Havre de Grace version of the Charter was signed and now hangs at the entrance to the Council Chambers at Havre de Grace City Hall. HdG Twinning visited Mumbles for a second time in the fall of 2023. The two groups also collaborated on writing and publishing a booklet focusing on the similarities of the two communities.
The most important result of the Twinning of Havre de Grace with Mumbles has been the friendships that have been created and continue to grow between the two communities. Each sees itself reflected in the other, and this greater understanding of people far away geographically helps us see ourselves more clearly.
Our Charter
Swansea calligrapher Judith Porch crafted the Charter, which is displayed in the hallway of City Hall in Havre de Grace. Mumbles and Havre de Grace signed the Charter at the Swansea Guildhall on September 7th, 2019.
A charter serves as a formal written document that outlines the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of an organization, institution, or government entity. Charters are created to establish the framework, purpose, and structure of the entity, and they often serve as a foundational document that governs its operations.
Our Logo
Harford County Graphic Designer Emily Hennegan designed the HdG Twinning logo that we proudly display.
Our logo is a unique story that brings two communities together in a memorable and engaging way. The narrative behind the design adds depth and meaning to the visual representation.
How HDG Twinning Relates to Community Projects
Volney Ford, President of Community Projects of Havre de Grace, shares the history of the organization and its relationship with HdG Twinning.
Why Twinning?
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Cross-Cultural Connections
The core mission of a Twinning Association is to establish and nurture cross-cultural connections between communities. Through town twinning, people from diverse backgrounds can engage in meaningful cultural exchanges.
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Friendships
Twinning aims to build lasting friendships and understanding between residents of twinned cities. This often involves organizing visits, events, and activities facilitating direct interaction and communication.
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Peace & Unity
Twinning Associations contribute to the broader goal of promoting peace and unity by fostering positive relationships at the community level. Originally, the practice of “Twinning” occurred after World War II in attempts to rebuild. These connections aim to transcend national borders and promote a sense of global harmony.
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Educational Experience & Cultural Exchange
Twinning involves the exchange of cultural practices, traditions, and artistic expressions. This can include events like festivals, art exhibitions, and performances that showcase the unique aspects of each community. Educational exchanges form a significant part of Twinning Associations' activities. Students, educators, and citizens may participate in exchange programs, allowing them to learn about different cultures, traditions, and ways of life.
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Shared Projects
Twinning often leads to shared projects and initiatives between twinned cities. These projects can cover a wide range of areas, including environmental sustainability, urban planning, healthcare, and technology.
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Language Learning
Twinning provides opportunities for language learning as residents may engage in language exchange programs, helping them to develop linguistic skills and cultural fluency. You can finally learn to pronounce the longest Welsh word - Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch!
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Diversity & Community
Twinning Associations celebrate the diversity of their respective communities. Embracing and appreciating differences is a key aspect, and twinned cities often take pride in their unique identities while building bridges of understanding. Ultimately, the Twinning Association contributes to community building on a global scale. By creating networks of interconnected cities, it strengthens the fabric of international relations at the grassroots level, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and solidarity among diverse communities.
Thank You to the City of Havre de Grace for Your Continued Support
Havre de Grace is known for its vibrant community spirit and supports numerous events, museums, festivals, and projects. These gatherings bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and community pride.
Consider Donating.
Your donation to HDG Twinning fuels cultural exchange, educational initiatives, and community collaborations that transcend borders. By contributing, you become a vital part of building bridges between diverse communities, fostering understanding, and creating a world where connections thrive. Your support echoes beyond borders, shaping a future where friendship and collaboration redefine the global landscape.