New Sister Cities:
Boulder Colorado and Vinnytsia Ukraine.

A tale of two cities yet a oneness of shared dreams.

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  • Across an ocean and a war, these two communities are choosing to build a bridge, not just with official resolutions, but with real relationships: educators talking to educators, students to students, clinicians to clinicians, artists to artists, neighbors to neighbors.

Connection is the Mission

  • Why Vinnytsia?

    Vinnytsia is a regional center in central-western Ukraine that has played a crucial role since the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022.While the fighting has been concentrated in eastern provinces, it has taken in many internally displaced people and continues to face the ongoing trauma of war: air-raid sirens, civilian casualties, interrupted schooling, and constant uncertainty. Electricity and water cuts are frequent due to the war.

    Despite this, Vinnytsia has shown remarkable resilience, creativity, and civic spirit. Local leaders are focused not only on survival, but also on the long work of recovery: trauma healing, education for a generation growing up in war, rebuilding social trust, and restoring a sense of possibility.

    Why Boulder?

    Boulder is blessed to be living in peace. It is home to a unique mix of scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, artists, therapists, and engaged citizens. It has a deep interest in world affairs and has a culture of experimentation in democracy, environmental leadership, and health.

    Boulder’s strengths in mental health and trauma-informed care, climate and environmental science, technology and innovation, and civic engagement make it a natural partner for a city like Vinnytsia seeking to navigate war-time realities while planning for post-war recovery.

    Much in common:

    Boulder (population approximately 108,000) and Vinnytsia (population approximately 370,000) are both mid-sized, university-centered cities with strong civic cultures, vibrant arts and innovation ecosystems, and a deep commitment to community well-being and environmental protection; notably, each has been widely recognized within its country as among the most livable cities.

Two cities - one heart

  • Due to the war, Vinnytsia has become a refuge for displaced people inside Ukraine, a city under pressure yet determined to protect life, culture, and democratic values. Boulder is a community known for its civic compassion, scientific leadership, and a long-standing interest in global issues.

Love and compassion without borders

Healing the Wounds of War & Transforming Trauma – Practical, on-going action

The brutal war that is approaching its fourth year has exacted a huge toll on the country. Beyond the physical destruction, the trauma that has been created in every man woman and child has been dramatic. From the grief of losing a loved one, to lives disrupted by fighting, to the sleepless nights of a child, the risk of intergenerational trauma is great.

Boulder psychotherapists have joined hands with the State Pedagogical University in Vinnytsia to build the capacity of Ukrainians clinicians and graduate students to address mental health issues of the most affected citizens. https://icmhhr.org/iits/

This work—carried out on a shoestring budget yet with state-of-the-art techniques and profound compassion—forms the cornerstone of the Sister City relationship.

  • While this relationship has advanced quickly in the critical and timely field of transforming trauma, here is a living list of additional possibilities that will grow as new ideas and partners emerge:

    Zoom Pal and classroom links
    Rotary and civic partnerships
    University collaboration on advancing ideas and research to useful solutions, products and businesses for advancing humanity

    Musicians and artists in residence

    Sports exchanges.

Vision for more – future possibilities

  • A Boulder-based 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation dedicated to the Boulder–Vinnytsia Sister City Partnership has been established to ensure transparent stewardship of funds and sustained support for activites. The foundation operates with clear reporting, oversight by a volunteer board, and an emphasis on modest but meaningful, high-impact activities.

How you can get involved

  • Is this an official Sister City?
    Yes… once both cities approve and sign a Cooperation Agreement, it becomes an official Sister City relationship recognized by Boulder and Vinnytsia.

    Is this political?
    The partnership is non-partisan and people-centered. It is not political. While it affirms Ukraine’s sovereignty and the dignity of civilians affected by war, its main focus is practical cooperation in education, health, culture, and community resilience.

    How are funds handled?
    Funds are received and managed by the Boulder-based 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation dedicated to this Sister City. Grants and support are channeled through trusted partners with clear reporting and oversight.

    How did this Sister City get started?Shortly after the outbreak of the war, Boulder-based psychotherapists began working with the Vinnytsia State Pedagogical University to strengthen the capacity of Ukrainian clinicians to address war-related trauma. This collaboration led to the creation of the International Institute for Trauma Studies (IITS) at the university, with Boulder resident Gaea Logan serving as U.S. Executive Director. Building on this foundation, the Highland Institute for the Advancement of Humanity, a Boulder-based think tank, embraced trauma healing as the cornerstone of a new Sister City initiative. The Institute then helped connect the two city administrations and established a nonprofit foundation to ensure the long-term vitality and success of the Sister City relationship.

    Can I help even if I cannot donate?
    Yes. Showing up, listening, learning, volunteering, and sharing your skills are all vital contributions.

    How do I connect?
    If you are interested in learning more, getting involved, or exploring a partnership idea, we would love to hear from you.    sister.city@highland.institute

Frequently asked questions