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About Twin Cities UNICO
We are a chapter of the largest Italian American service organization in the United States.
UNICO was founded in 1922 to fight discrimination and defamation. The Twin Cities Chapter was formed in 1941.
The founders felt as Italians we could best serve UNICO’s mission by showing our responsibility to our
communities with our good works.
THE TWIN CITIES METRO AREA CHAPTER supports UNICO NATIONAL’S programs with an emphasis
on meeting local needs. We provide scholarships, and support for nonprofit charities, community activities,
and efforts to preserve Italian culture and heritage. Our more than 50 years of service have provided financial
contributions totalling over six figures.
UNICO Mission Statement
To contribute to the well-being of our local communities and of
the nation by making significant contributions to
deserving local and national charities. UNICO strives to honor,
perpetuate, and disseminate the culture and ethnic
heritage of our Italian immigrant ancestors, by supporting higher
education and by educating and informing our members,
local communities and our nation.
UNICO Twin Cities Chapter History
The local UNICO club was founded in 1939 when Charles J. Yarusso, attorney,
conceived the idea of a business and professional men's group comprised entirely of Americans
of Italian origin. The first meeting was held in May of that year. The name chosen was
Italian American Business and Professional Men's Club of St. Paul. In 1941 the club affiliated
with UNICO International, which was founded in 1922. The St. Paul chapter was very involved
in national meetings and affairs at that time. This chapter hosted the national convention in St. Paul in 1948.
Our chapter inaugurated UNICO scholarships in 1945, which National
UNICO adopted for all its chapters in 1948.
In 1997, the chapter changed its bylaws to accept women members. Katherine Piccolo
and Diane Rossi were the first female members. Since then the chapter has achieved
unprecedented membership increases and its contributions to charities have grown immensely.
Since its inception in 1939, the chapter has donated almost
$1 million dollars to scholarships, Gillette Children’s Hospital,
St. Francis Brothers of Peace, and countless other charitable groups doing good works.
Service Above Self
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Monthly Meetings
Tuesday March 9, 2010 International Institute
Light Supper 6:30 PM. Meeting 7 PM
Call if you have any questions. Bob Mannella 763-560-4290
Meetings generally at the
International Institute,
Plan to join us!
Help Us Serve
Throughout the year, UNICO partners with the Franciscan Brothers of Peace in the Twin Cities
through donations to their food shelves, gathering clothing and supplies in the colder months and direct donations. We invite you to bring warm men's clothing, blankets and toiletries to the meeting.
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