Naples Italian American Foundation

05/08/2026

🇮🇹❤️ One of the most meaningful traditions at NIAF.
For many years, the Naples Italian American Foundation has proudly supported Special Olympics athletes and their families through friendship, volunteerism, and community.

Every Tuesday during season, our bocce courts come alive with joy, encouragement, determination, and laughter. What begins as a game quickly becomes something much deeper — connection, confidence, and belonging.

These moments remind us that NIAF is more than events and programs. It is a community built on generosity, inclusion, and heart.

We are honored to stand alongside these incredible athletes and families.

05/04/2026

🌹 NIAF Kentucky Derby Dinner & Dance — A Beautiful Day at the Races 🐎

What a memorable afternoon at NIAF as we celebrated the Kentucky Derby in style!

The room came alive with elegance and color as our ladies showcased stunning Derby hats and fascinators—truly a highlight of the day. From classic looks to bold creations, the fashion alone made it feel like a day at Churchill Downs right here in Naples.

Beyond the style, what made the event special was the warmth of the gathering—friends and couples enjoying great food, lively conversation, and the excitement of the Run for the Roses together. The energy carried right into the evening with music, dancing, and plenty of smiles.

This is what NIAF is all about—bringing people together in a welcoming setting where friendships grow and moments like these are shared.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the day so special.

We’re already looking forward to next year!

📸 Enjoy some of our favorite moments—and be sure to tag yourself and your friends!

👉 “And yes… the hats did not disappoint.”

04/28/2026

We are honored to receive this kind note from Mayor Teresa Heitmann recognizing the Naples Italian American Foundation’s Special Olympics Bocce program.

For 25 years, these athletes have inspired all of us with their dedication, sportsmanship, and joy.

Our heartfelt thanks to the athletes, families, coaches, and volunteers who make this community so special. 🇮🇹❤️

04/27/2026

💃 Dinner, Derby and Dancing This Saturday at NIAF

Join us for a fun, social evening with Sonic Solutions DJ, great music, and a lively dance floor.
🍽 Dinner and Dancing
🍷 Cash bar
🐎 Kentucky Derby on screen

Reservations close soon. Public welcome.
Members $45, Guests $55
👉 Reserve Now at https://niafoundation.org/event/kentucky-derby-party-with-sonic-solutions-dj/

Come out and enjoy the night.

04/22/2026

Naples, the dance floor is calling… 🕺✨

Join us at NIAF for a high-energy night of 70’s & 80’s classics with DJ Collins—great music, great food, and even better company.

Come for dinner, enjoy the Chicken Marsala, salad, sides and dessert, stay for the dancing… and don’t be surprised if you stay all night.

🎶 Disco favorites. Classic hits. A full room of energy.

If you were thinking about it… now’s the time.
Reservations close on Wednesday April 22.

Public Invited

📍 Saturday, April 25
⏰ Doors open 5:30 PM
📍 7035 Airport Pulling Rd. N, Naples

Members $45, Guests $55.

🎟 Reserve your spot Hwew by Wednesday April 22:

Get ready for a fun, high-energy evening as we turn back the clock to the great dance music of the 70’s and 80’s — from disco favorites to classic dance hits. Whether you want to dance all night or just enjoy the music and atmosphere with friends, this will be a lively and memorable evening

03/31/2026

One of the most special moments from our Scholarship Awards Dinner came from Jennifer Bates of Barron Collier High School, recipient of the NIAF Special Needs Scholarship.

Jennifer is a talented artist, and she surprised the Naples Italian American Foundation by presenting us with a beautiful painting she created of an Italian seascape in Cinque Terre. We were truly touched by her kindness and generosity.

Jennifer was introduced to our scholarship program by her guidance counselor, Gina Manville DeJager, who previously helped us identify another outstanding Special Needs Scholarship recipient several years ago. Partnerships like this allow us to reach remarkable students in our community.

Jennifer, we are very proud of you and grateful for your beautiful gift. Your painting will have a special place in our Foundation and will always remind us why our scholarship program is one of the most meaningful things we do.

Congratulations to Jennifer and the entire NIAF Scholarship Class of 2026.

03/28/2026

Scholarship Awards Dinner. The Naples Italian American Foundation was proud to celebrate one of the most meaningful evenings of our year
This year we honored the NIAF Scholarship Class of 2026, recognizing an outstanding group of seven students for their academic achievement, community involvement, perseverance, and character.

The Class of 2026 included two Special Needs Scholarships, which remain one of the most important and meaningful parts of our Foundation’s mission.

These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of our members and donors who believe strongly in education, opportunity, and helping young people pursue their goals and dreams.

Each year this evening reminds us that the Naples Italian American Foundation is not just a social and cultural organization — it is an organization that makes a real and lasting difference in the lives of families in our community.

Congratulations to the NIAF Scholarship Class of 2026. We are very proud of you and excited to see what the future holds for each of you.

03/26/2026

Last night we had another wonderful evening at the Naples Italian American Foundation with our Italian Trivia Night!

Nearly 60 members and friends joined us for a night filled with laughter, great food, vino, friendly competition, and a lot of Italian pride. Congratulations to all of our trivia winners!
A special thank you to Paul Pacter, who once again did a fantastic job moderating the evening — just as he does with his outstanding Unveiling Italy presentation series.

Thank you also to NIAF President Andrew Calvanese for welcoming everyone and helping make the evening run so smoothly.

This is what NIAF is all about —
friendship, culture, learning, and community.

Grazie to everyone who joined us. We look forward to seeing you at our next event!

03/20/2026

Last night at the Naples Italian American Foundation, we experienced something truly special, continuing our decades long tradition in Naples..

Our St. Joseph’s Day celebration reached full capacity, welcoming 125 members and guests for an evening centered on one of Italy’s most meaningful and cherished traditions.
From the beautifully prepared St. Joseph’s Table and blessing to the shared meal and warm conversations throughout the room, the night reflected what this tradition has always been about—faith, family, and community.

For many, it brought back memories of childhood celebrations. For others, it was a chance to experience St. Joseph’s Day in a deeper and more authentic way. And for all of us, it was a reminder of how powerful these traditions can be when we come together to celebrate them.

At NIAF, we believe our heritage is not just something to remember—it is something to live.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the evening so meaningful. We look forward to continuing to bring these traditions to life for our community.

Buona Festa di San Giuseppe 🇮🇹

12/27/2025