UNICO National, the largest Italian American Organization in the USA was founded on October 10, 1922 in Waterbury, Connecticut. A group of 15 men, led by Dr. Anthony P. Vastola, came together to create what has become a very special and very proud organization. It was Dr. Vastola’s dream to create an Italian American service organization to engage in charitable works, support higher education, and perform patriotic deeds.
Bloomfield UNICO a chapter of UNICO National was formed in 1956, has followed Dr. Vastola’s dream by promoting the Italian American Culture in the Township of Bloomfield by performing charitable works amongst the community by giving scholarships and other donations of time and money to those in the community. Since our formation, Bloomfield UNICO has given out more than 1500 scholarships to Bloomfield students and residents including 80 Brian Piccolo Scholarships to student athletes.
In addition to scholarships, Bloomfield UNICO has supported the revitalization of Foley Field, donated the statue of Christopher Columbus on the Township Green, donated the electronic sign board in front of the Civic Center and contributed to many other Civic Programs and appeals throughout the township. Also each year on National Service Day- Bloomfield UNICO has sponsored a luncheon for seniors at both Bloomfield Senior facilities. Bloomfield UNICO musicians have also provided entertainment.
Since 1995, Bloomfield UNICO has sponsored the Columbus Day Essay Contest for fourth grade students in the Elementary system. Cash prizes are awarded to the First, Second and Third Place Winners. Identical cash awards are given to the winners Home and School Association. There are ten additional consolation winners. All receive plaques. Following the ceremony on the Green, there is a free pancake breakfast for the students, their parents and relatives.
Bloomfield UNICO has participated on a National level in Cooley’s Anemia, Mental Health, the Jimmy V Cancer projects by hosting Bowl a Thons and Walk a thons and contributed to these national events.
Funding for these projects come from our members, donations and sponsorships from local businesses, and fundraisers such as our annual Bowl-a-Thon.
Our members have been Mayors, Councilman, Municipal, County and Federal Judges, Board of Education Presidents and members, Town Attorneys. Chiefs and members of the Fire and Police Departments, members of Municipal Committees. Bloomfield Federation of Music Presidents, Educators Principals and Agency Chairs and members.
Two of our members, Mr. Joseph Napolitano and Mr. Paul Alongi have served as National Presidents of UNICO.
Membership is available to all people 18 years of age and older who are of Italian Heritage or who are married to a person of Italian Heritage. An application for membership is available by clicking here