The Montebello-Ashiya Sister City Association (MASCA) is a nonprofit organization. Although the association works closely with the City of Montebello, it remains an independent, community-based volunteer organization. The City provides ongoing partnership and institutional support through collaboration, resources, and program alignment, while MASCA raises the funding necessary to sustain the Montebello Student Ambassador Exchange Program, educational opportunities, and cultural initiatives.

The work of the Montebello-Ashiya Sister City Association is made possible through contributions from Montebello residents, individuals, local businesses, and program supporters who believe in strengthening international relationships and expanding opportunities for local youth. As a registered 501(c)(4) social welfare organization, contributions are not tax-deductible as charitable donations, but they directly fund student programming, exchanges, and community events.

The benefits provided to Montebello youth, including educational growth, cultural awareness, and global connection, are matched by the broader public value the Sister City Association brings to the community. The organization serves as a vehicle for volunteerism and civic pride, offering the City a program with a long history of meaningful international engagement.

Over decades of affiliation, enduring ties have been formed through student ambassador exchanges and formal city delegation visits. Beyond official delegations, many informal exchanges have taken place, with MASCA members traveling to Ashiya, building friendships, and hosting visitors in Montebello homes in the spirit of President Eisenhower’s People-to-People initiative.

This bond of friendship across the Pacific has existed for more than half a century. The Montebello-Ashiya Sister City relationship stands as one of the community’s most enduring international partnerships, representing decades of cultural exchange, educational opportunity, and shared goodwill.