The Columbian Foundation is filled with pride and gratitude as we share a heartfelt message we recently received from Pax Ardanz, a bright young student whom we were honored to sponsor for the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Voyage of Discovery. This incredible, all-expenses-paid journey offered Pax and fellow participants the opportunity to explore breathtaking UNESCO sites, experience local Italian hotspots, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Italy.

In his beautifully written card, Pax expressed his deep appreciation for the experiences, lessons, and friendships he gained during this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. His words remind us of the importance of fostering opportunities that allow young Italian Americans to connect with their roots and grow through cultural exploration.

We are truly thankful to Pax for sharing his journey with us, including a cherished photo from his trip, which you can view below. His gratitude reflects the very mission of The Columbian Foundation—supporting and sponsoring young Italian Americans on transformative experiences that help them strengthen their bonds with our shared heritage.

It brings us immense joy to be able to support programs like the NIAF Voyage of Discovery and invest in the future of our community. We are honored to play a role in empowering young Italian Americans like Pax to explore, learn, and bring back invaluable memories from their ancestral homeland.

Thank you once again, Pax, for your kind words. We look forward to continuing to support future generations in their cultural journeys.

Warm regards,

The Columbian Foundation

Title: Introducing Our 2024 Honorees: A Night of Gratitude and Celebration

Following the solemn and meaningful 9/11 Memorial and Flag Raising at Eagle Rock Reservation, The Columbian Foundation had the pleasure of gathering to introduce the distinguished individuals who will be honored at our 2024 Annual Gala.

Honorees to be recognized:

• Tom Boorujy – Chiropractor and Healthcare Entrepreneur
• Pasquale F. Giannetta, Esq. – Columbian Foundation Member
• Mike Marino – Managing Director, New York Office of FW Cook
• John Christopher Resciniti – Owner and President of Motorcycle Mall
• Richard A Guarino, M.D. – Oxford Pharmaceutical Resources Inc. 

These honorees represent outstanding service, consistently making a positive impact in their communities and the Italian American community at large. Their dedication to giving back exemplifies the very spirit of our mission, and we are proud to recognize their contributions.

The evening was made even more special by the bountiful dinner provided by the staff at Eagle Rock Reservation, who we thank sincerely for their hospitality and continued support. Our honorees shared a few heartfelt words, inspiring us all as we look forward to celebrating them properly at our 82nd Annual Gala.

We are excited to remind you that the Gala will take place on October 26th at 5 PM at the Westmount Country Club. This promises to be a night of celebration, camaraderie, and Italian culture, as we honor those who have given so much to our community. We encourage you to secure your tickets early and join us for this special evening.

Thank you to everyone who has continued to support The Columbian Foundation. We eagerly look forward to sharing this memorable event with you.

For more details on the event and to purchase tickets please refer to this post.

To see more photos from the gathering please click here

This year, The Columbian Foundation gathered at Eagle Rock Reservation for our Annual Flag Raising & 9/11 Memorial, a solemn occasion to pay tribute to the lives lost on 9/11 and to honor those who bravely served during and after this tragic time. With deep gratitude, we extend our thanks to the service members who responded with courage on that fateful day, as well as those who continue to serve and protect our nation.

We also wish to honor all current service members, whose dedication and efforts—both within the Italian American community and beyond—embody the very spirit of service and sacrifice. Your contributions will never be forgotten.

A special thank you to the staff at Eagle Rock Reservation for their invaluable support in hosting this event, allowing us to remember, reflect, and pay homage together.

Please enjoy a few photos from this meaningful day.

God Bless.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Evening at the Columbian Foundation’s 82nd Annual Gala!

The Columbian Foundation is thrilled to announce our 82nd Annual Humanitarian Achievement Awards Dinner, a night of celebration, recognition, and community. Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 26, 2024, as we gather to honor remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to our society, culture, and community.

This year’s honorees include:

• Tom Boorujy – Chiropractor and Healthcare Entrepreneur
• Pasquale F. Giannetta, Esq. – Columbian Foundation Member
• Mike Marino – Managing Director, New York Office of FW Cook
• John Christopher Resciniti – Owner and President of Motorcycle Mall
• Richard A Guarino, M.D. – Oxford Pharmaceutical Resources Inc. 

These distinguished individuals will be recognized for their outstanding achievements and their dedication to humanitarian causes, each of whom embodies the values and mission of the Columbian Foundation.

The gala will be held at the beautiful Westmount Country Club in Woodland Park, NJ. The evening will begin at 5:00 PM with registration, followed by a cocktail reception from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Guests will then be treated to a night of fine dining and dancing from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, October 26, 2024
• Location: Westmount Country Club, 728 Rifle Camp Road, Woodland Park, NJ 07424
• Dress Code: Black Tie
• Schedule:
  • Registration: 5:00 PM
  • Cocktail Event: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Dinner and Dancing: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

All proceeds from the evening will benefit student scholarships at Rutgers NJ Medical School, Seton Hall Law School, NJIT, Montclair State University, and other various charities. Your support will help us continue to make a positive impact on the lives of deserving students and support charitable initiatives that strengthen our community.

We invite you to join us for this elegant and meaningful event. Let’s come together to celebrate our heritage, honor our leaders, and support the next generation of scholars and professionals.

We look forward to welcoming you to an evening of unity, culture, and celebration.

See you in October!

To Purchase Tickets Via Paypal: Use This Link Directly and Send Email with Reservation Card to:MSACCONE747@GMAIL.COM

To Purchase Tickets by Mail:

Please Enclose Reservation Card, your camera-ready copy, ad layout, or business card and check made payable to :

COLUMBIAN FOUNDATION

C/O MICHAEL SACCONE

PO BOX 651 • ESSEX FELLS, NJ 07021-0651

PHONE 973.747.0001

A Swinging Success: The 2024 Columbian Foundation Annual Golf Outing!

The 2024 Columbian Foundation Annual Golf Outing at the picturesque Forest Hills Field Club was an outstanding success, filled with camaraderie and community spirit. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our members, participants, and generous donors for their unwavering support and dedication to the Italian American community in New Jersey. Your continued efforts make events like these possible and strengthen our shared heritage.

A special thank you goes to the exceptional staff at the Forest Hills Field Club for their impeccable support and hospitality. Your commitment to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable event was truly appreciated.

Relive the highlights and memorable moments by exploring our photo gallery from the outing here. Thank you once again for being an integral part of our vibrant community.

View the photos from the event here

Download individual photos from the event on our photographer’s website here.

This past week members of The Columbian Foundation gathered to swear in its newest member, Reverend Cavalier Father Thomas Nicastro. The foundation is honored to induct Father Thomas, as he continues to grow his long time involvement and positive impact on the Italian American Community. Auguri!

Save the Date!

The Columbian Foundation’s cordially invites you to join our Annual Christmas Party which is set for December 18th, 2023, at 6:30 PM.

Join us at “Nainina’s in the Park” in Belleville, New Jersey, for an evening of festive fun and camaraderie as we celebrate the holiday season. Tickets are $120 per person, and guests are encouraged and warmly welcomed!

Direct payments can be sent via checks made Payable to the Columbian Foundation and should be forwarded to Anthony Iuso at 190 Boulevard Pompton Plains, NJ 07444. Please Contact Mark Guarino at 973-216-7556 for payment by credit card. Please RSVP with names and preferred table seating to Dr. Guarino By December 11, 2023.

Email: Guarino.oxfordpharm@gmail.com Phone: 973-746-6657

Let’s make this holiday season unforgettable together as we celebrate our Italian American Community. See you there!

In the radiant ambiance of the Westmont Country Club, The Columbian Foundation celebrated its 81st Annual Gala, a night filled with gratitude, camaraderie, and a deep sense of community. It’s with immense appreciation that we extend our heartfelt thanks to all our members, attendees, and generous donors for their unwavering support, dedication, and tireless efforts within the vibrant Italian American community of New Jersey.

This gala was a special evening, where we not only celebrated our shared heritage but also recognized the incredible individuals who have made a significant impact on our community. Our 2023 Honorees have exemplified what it means to give back and support the Italian-American community in countless ways, and their contributions are nothing short of inspiring.

Furthermore, we take great pride in announcing the winners of the 2023 Scholarships, bright young minds who represent the future of our community. Their accomplishments and aspirations remind us of the enduring spirit of our heritage and the promising legacy that continues to thrive.

To relive the magic of this unforgettable evening, we invite you to peruse our photo gallery from the event, showcasing the smiles, laughter, and moments of connection that made the 81st Annual Gala an evening to remember.

View The Gala Photos Here

Thank you for being a part of our extended Columbian Foundation family. Your support is the lifeblood of our mission, and it’s through your dedication that we continue to build bridges, celebrate our heritage, and secure a brighter future for the Italian-American community in New Jersey.