While American forces struggle with tumultuous relations in Iraq, students worldwide are meeting at Austin Community College to learn how they can foster relationships through global understanding and tolerance. Approximately 14 students between the ages of 15 and 19 will participate in the Austin Sister Cities International Youth Leadership Conference.

“For five days students from America, Germany, Mexico, Lesotho and Nigeria will participate in activities that will help them understand and accept each other’s cultures,” said Renata Anderson, ACC Volunteer European Affairs Advisor.
“One of the best ways to teach people how to be tolerant of one another is through volunteerism.”

At 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 10, each student will visit worksites in which they will volunteer their efforts to build housing for the economically disadvantaged. “Habitat for Humanity” and “Hands-On Housing” are providing the volunteer opportunities.

“Volunteerism is very American. These students will learn how it works, and be able to take it back to their respective countries,” said Anderson.

Austin Community College is a leader in fostering global relations. Each Fall semester approximately six ACC welding students travel to Germany to gain international training and certification.

“Our definition of community has changed to include countries around the world,” said Jan Smith, ACC Professor in International Business. “In order for our students to enter the world as it is, they must have a global perspective.”

ACC is hosting the Youth Leadership Conference at its Highland Business Center, located at 5930 Middle Fiskville Road. The conference runs through Tuesday, July 13, and is funded through private donations and volunteers.