About IAPBC

About Us

PURPOSE

At the heart of IAPBC is our unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant community where Italian-Americans can celebrate their culture while receiving support for their professional and personal growth. We achieve this through a variety of initiatives, including mentorship programs, numerous networking opportunities, and educational scholarships aimed at empowering our members.

The IAPBC actively promotes Italian-American ideals of community involvement, culture, heritage, and family, creating opportunities for personal and professional development. We extend one hand to greet and one hand to give by providing scholarships to eligible students of Italian descent, assisting them in obtaining higher education.

In addition to supporting education, the club extends a helping hand to individuals and families in need of financial assistance. These efforts are made possible by membership dues and active participation in our club functions, which include the Morra Tournament, the annual golf outing, Viva la Panza, and the Christmas Gala.

HISTORY

Founded in 1938 as a modest gathering of Italian American business leaders and political figures, the Viva La Panza Club evolved into the Italian American Professional and Business Club by 1970. Originally initiated by Joseph Licitri at his Belt Line Grocery Store in Akron, Ohio, these gatherings celebrated the support provided to Italian immigrants, aiding their transition to America with legal, employment, and language assistance. This tradition lives on through the annual Viva La Panza dinner, a significant networking event in Northeast Ohio held before the November elections, fostering connections between the community and local politicians.

Today, the IAPBC continues to honor its origins with a vibrant calendar of events that includes the historical Viva La Panza dinner hosted at Todaro’s Party Center since the 1990s, attracting over 650 attendees annually. These events not only serve as a platform for cultural celebration and political engagement but also support educational opportunities through scholarships for students of Italian heritage. With an annual budget exceeding $120,000 and a dedicated volunteer board, the IAPBC’s commitment to community, heritage, and leadership endures, marking it as a cornerstone of Italian American culture in Akron.

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EVENTS

We host numerous events throughout the year, including weekly club lunches, annual celebrations, and humanitarian award ceremonies. Signature events include the Morra Tournament, the IAPBC Italian Open Golf Classic, and the Christmas Gala. These gatherings not only celebrate our heritage but also strengthen community bonds and provide networking opportunities for our members. Our events are designed to bring people together, celebrate our culture, and make a positive impact on our community.

Here are some of the key events:

Christmas Gala: A festive celebration bringing members together to enjoy the holiday season.
IAPBC Italian Open Golf Classic: An exciting golf tournament fostering camaraderie and competition.
Morra Tournament: A traditional Italian game tournament, bringing fun and friendly rivalry.
Viva La Panza: Our signature networking dinner, honoring the original club’s traditions.
Volunteer Opportunities: Engage with the community through various volunteer activities.
Wine Down Wednesday: Monthly informal gatherings for members to relax and socialize.

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LEADERSHIP

Our dedicated leadership team works tirelessly to ensure the success of our initiatives and the continued growth of the club. Comprising individuals who are passionate about our mission, the team is committed to upholding the values of IAPBC and fostering a vibrant, engaged community. They oversee the planning and execution of our events, manage our programs, and ensure that our members receive the support they need.