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A Chapter of UNICO National, the largest Italian American service organization in the U.S.
UNICO was founded on October 10, 1922 in Waterbury, Connecticut. A group of 15 men, led by Dr. Anthony P. Vastola, came together to create what has become a very special and very proud organization. It was Dr. Vastola’s dream to create an Italian American service organization to engage in charitable works, support higher education, and perform patriotic deeds.
The name UNICO was selected as best representing the nature and the character of this fledgling organization. The name is the Italian word for unique, one of a kind. The founders believed that UNICO would be the only one of its kind because it placed service to the community before and above fraternity. At the same time they hoped that the rest of society would come to know and understand the real contributions of Italian Americans to our way of life. Its sole purpose was to unite all Italian Americans and motivate them to become more civic minded. In order to accomplish this, members would have to understand that they would have to make sacrifices, not for personal gain, but for service to others. In the ensuing years UNICO became an acronym that stood for Unity, Neighborliness, Integrity, Charity, and Opportunity.
The Irish Cultural Center of Western New England is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization that emphasizes cultural and educational programming. The ICC focuses on providing access to Irish-oriented lectures, concerts, exhibitions of art, artifacts and memorabilia, political discussions, international relations, GAA sports, Irish language classes, summer youth camps, student international exchange and genealogical research. The ICC also serves as a bridge between the Irish government and the Western New England region.
Vision
To foster an appreciation of Irish culture.
Mission
The mission of the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England is to cultivate a connection with Ireland, through the arts, culture, history, language, and heritage. The Center offers opportunities to engage in educational, travel, and social events that promote Irish culture.
The Irish Cultural Center is a leading Irish cultural organization in Western New England.
We strive to:
• offer the highest quality programs, with popular and respected guest speakers, artists and musicians
• provide unique opportunities to actively participate in aspects of Irish culture
• promote ties between the Center and educational and cultural organizations in Ireland
• establish links with Irish organizations throughout New England
• develop programs for all ages to learn about Irish arts and culture
• maintain a collection of literature, films, music and archival materials available for use
