Remembering innovative Italians means honoring generations of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers whose ideas continue to shape our world. From the Renaissance to the modern age, these individuals combined imagination with determination, leaving behind more than achievements—they left inspiration. By remembering their contributions, we celebrate not only what they created, but the enduring Italian spirit of curiosity, ingenuity, and resilience that continues to influence future generations.
Enjoy delicious food and warm hospitality as we celebrate Italian culture and community.
Hosted by the Italian-American Cultural Center of Iowa.
If you’ve passed the Italian American Cultural Center recently, you’ve likely noticed it — progress is no longer theoretical. As of late December 2025, construction is well underway, marking an important milestone as planning and promise give way to visible transformation.
Mail your contribution and completed Pledge Form to: Italian-American Cultural Ctr of IA, PO Box 4994, Des Moines IA 50305.
Contact Jeff Lamberti at 515-964-8777 or email.
The Olive Tree: A Symbol of Family and Heritage
In Italian culture, the olive tree represents strength, resilience, and deep roots—much like the bonds of family. Just as the tree endures through generations, so too does the love and connection shared by family members. Strong, rooted, and ever-growing, the olive tree symbolizes the enduring legacy of our Italian heritage.
Your $200 tax-deductible donation purchases a 4” engraved leaf featuring three lines of personalized text – perfect for honoring, commemorating, or remembering a loved one.
It’s easy to see that even under construction, the timeless beauty of the Butler Mansion still shines through!
Dear Friends of the Center,
As we move toward October 2026, our hearts are filled with gratitude for everyone who has been by our side on this incredible journey. The Italian-American Cultural Center of Iowa will become a special place in our community because of your generosity, your hard work, and your unwavering support. Read more….
Your family history is part of our Italian-American community’s story. Together, we can preserve and celebrate those stories for future generations.
As part of the ongoing renovation of the Italian-American Cultural Center of Iowa, which will be completed in Fall 2026, a brand new Genealogy Room is being created. This space will offer resources to help you explore your Italian roots — and we’re also including a Genealogy Room Library to showcase family histories.
If you’ve already traced your Italian family story, we’d love for you to share a copy of your book, or tree to help grow this collection.
Questions? Reach out to Kathy at foggia@iaccofia.org
Several people have asked about the display of our flags and the order in which they are flown.
I would like to clarify this point.
Here is the rule regarding flying the US flag, a state flag, and a flag from another nation:
It was a true “Who’s Who” of city, county, and state leaders—complete with the Governor, the Mayor, and the Polk County Supervisors—all gathered with silver shovels in hand to celebrate our Groundbreaking!
Watch the WHO13 newscast here.
