The Italian American Heritage Foundation of San Jose is dedicated to strengthen and enhance the local Italian Culture. In the attempt to heighten Italian cultural awareness, IAFH organizes events for its members such as Opera nights, musical shows, film festivals, concerts and cultural exchanges. Solidarity among the members develops through additional activities: dinner dances, family dinners, the annual Art and Wine festival, lectures, language classes, discussions and the famed Italian- American festival held in late September and early October. In addition, aware of the need to foster a younger generation, the IAHF offers scholarships and programs specifically for young Italians. The IAHF welcomes the membership of anyone interested in Italian Culture. A library located at the cultural center is a source for research materials. A monthly newspaper, "Italian American Heritage Foundation News," provides current information on the Santa Clara Valley Italian community. Also, a visit to the center offers conversation with members and a chance to view historical photographs of early Italian settlement in the area. The doors of the IAHF, therefore, are not only open to local Italians, but also to those seeking further awareness of Italian American culture.
Dickey, Jim, "Italian American Cultural Center to Mark 20th Year with Dinner Dance," San Jose Mercury News, Wednesday, August 23, 1995, Morning Final Edition, Sec. East Extra p. 1 Dickey, Jim, "Italians Master Art of Festivals -- Family Fun: Music, Food, Pizza Tosses, Grape-Stomping and More at Fairgrounds," San Jose Mercury News, Wednesday, September 28, 1994, Morning Final Editon, Sec. East Extra, p. 1 Frank, Russell, "New Lands, Old Ways -- Everyday Objects and Images Put Italian-American Lives in Focus," San Jose Mercury News, Sunday, October 11, 1992, Morning Final Edition, Sec. Arts & Books p. 5MaryAnn Arndt
