UNICO was founded in Waterbury, Connecticut, in 1922 by Dr. Anthony P. Vastola and Italian Americans to serve the community through charitable, patriotic, and educational efforts. The organization expanded to other cities, with the first convention held in New York in 1930. In 1947, UNICO National was officially established after a merger with the National Italian Civic League. The organization’s motto is “Service Above Self,” with “UNICO” symbolizing core values: Unity, Neighborliness, Integrity, Charity, and Opportunity.
The Kansas City Chapter was formed in 1949, comprising prominent Italian American professionals. It raises funds for college scholarships and charitable causes. Since 1954, it has awarded over a million dollars in scholarships, with 35 recipients who received a total of $56,000 in 2024. Major fundraising events include the “I am an American Day” gala, which ran from 1951 to 1997, and the Festa Italiana, which was revived by UNICO in 2002 and has grown significantly, attracting over 30,000 attendees in 2023. The Kansas City Chapter now has around 200 members, making it the second largest among 144 chapters nationwide.
Click the link below to become a member of UNICO KC today and become part of a vibrant Italian-American community dedicated to service, heritage, and making a lasting impact in Kansas City. Connect with passionate professionals, support meaningful causes, and celebrate culture through friendship and philanthropy.
