Italian cultural centre giving back to the community

By Toyin Obatusin - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on December 21, 2024.

It’s the season of giving, and that is exactly what the Italian Canadian Cultural Centre is doing with donations of up to $10,000 every year, allocated to various non-profit organizations, focusing on areas where the center believed that their contributions would mostly benefit.
Organizations such as the Lethbridge Food Bank, Wood’s Homes, Streets Alive, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys and Girls club, The Soup Kitchen, YWCA Harbour House, Society St. Vincent DePaul, benefit from this yearly occurrence.
In a press release, Nick Virginillo, club president, mentioned that “it’s their way of thanking the community for all the support the Club has received over the years.”
On Monday, Lina Mcnab, the treasurer of the Italian Canadian Cultural Centre, located 1511 Saint Edward Blvd North, reiterated the what, and the why of choosing generosity, first.
“Our organization is a non-profit dedicated to supporting various charitable causes annually, focusing on areas where we believe our contributions are most needed. The Centre is committed to making a positive impact within the community.
Not only does the cultural centre give back to charitable organizations, they’ve also partnered with the Lethbridge Polytechnic as well as the University of Lethbridge to honour four annual scholarships valued at $1000.00 each.
The recipients of this award must either be of Italian descent, or have parents who are members of the community. They also contributed to the earthquake relief efforts in Italy through the Red Cross.
The Italian Canadian Cultural Centre invites the Lethbridge community to celebrate New Years Eve together with them this year. The club has planned an unforgettable evening of Italian food, music by the Bamboo Guppies, dancing and new memories.
Tickets must be purchased in advance either online or in person, but e-transfers are also acceptable and can be sent to italianclub@hotmail.ca. For more information you can visit the club at lethbridgeitalianclub.com/services-1, where all future events are listed.
For those who want to become a member of this community, there is a membership fee of $25 per year, which includes activities like a monthly dinner-and dance, annual picnic, senior supper and a Befana event for the children during Christmas.
Mcnab mentioned that they will be offering Spanish lessons in the new year, for members and non-members, whether Italian or simply curious. Dates have not yet been decided upon.
The Italian Cultural Centre was also voted “Best of the Best Caterer 2024,” with Adam Essex, Manager and Chef, in charge. With their buffet style menu where prices range depending on choice of protein. There will be a choice of salad or soup, veggie, starch and dessert, not only complimentary pasta and homemade bread.
The entire community is invited, not only to give back, to join in and enjoy a little taste of Italy, as well as give back.

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