Membership Inquiries

If you’re interested in joining our club, email us at IAHCRoanoke@gmail.com. We’re excited to hear from you!

Our History

The group was begun in 1989 by Mary Wickland, whose desire was to bring together people of Italian/American descent. She served as the first president and was succeeded by Angie Drudi Harvey. The Club’s first Christmas Party was held at Scarlet’s restaurant in 1990, with forty in attendance.  Several of our founders continue as members today.

Over the years, we have enjoyed many pursuits: bocce, cooking club, recipe exchange, and language lessons to name few.  Our published cookbook with handed-down recipes is a delight to the palate. They have been kitchen tested incorporating preparation techniques from previous generations.

Proudly in 2013, we were the featured country in the Local Colors annual celebration of diversity.  It takes a village……and we have created one for all to enjoy.

Meetings

The Club often meets the second Sunday of the month.  Most meetings are held at the Salem Senior Citizens’ Center, 110 Union Street, Salem, VA  24153 at 4 pm. The meeting format usually includes a meal, a program, and a brief business meeting.  Throughout the year, we also dine out, and have an annual picnic and an enjoyable Christmas party.

At our meetings we host diverse guest speakers  on timely topics as well as to enhance our journey into our heritage.  Also, we have enjoyed programs on everything from Italian opera and marble sculpting in Italy to talks on drug interactions for seniors by pharmacists to hearing loss by an Audiometrist.

Membership

Membership in the club is open to all persons (18 years and older) of Italian Heritage, as well as spouses and family members. Our annual dues are a modest $10 per member.