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.

Follow our journey.

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 will be recognized with a 4” engraved leaf featuring three lines of personalized text – perfect for honoring, commemorating, or remembering a loved one.

Order yours here.

Read this great article by Kate Kealy of The Des Moines Register  

The renovation and expansion of an iconic white mansion that overlooks Gray’s Lake and downtown Des Moines is expected to begin this summer with much of the work completed by fall 2026.

Members of the Italian-American Cultural Center of Iowa have spent more than two years planning and raising money ……………..

Read more in our July Newsletter.

We are honored to be featured in the June 2025 issue of Cityview DSM. Read about amazing Italians, from Babe Bisignano to Lou Farrell to Caitlin Clark in this amazing article by Jim Duncan.

Cityview

Many members of our community have asked how donations for the new Center are being used. It’s a question that reflects the deep connection so many feel to our shared heritage.

The story that follows is just one example of how these contributions are making a difference. This particular donation carries with it a legacy of love, hard work, and cultural pride. It represents more than just financial support; it is a tribute to family and the hope that future generations will continue to celebrate and honor our rich Italian roots. Read story.

Follow our journey as we go beyond boundaries to enrich Iowa’s cultural landscape.

Track our progress.

In the heart of Venice, the concept of cicchetti has long been a cherished tradition, offering a unique way to savor the city’s rich culinary heritage. Cicchetti are small plates of food typically enjoyed with a glass of wine or a spritz in the convivial atmosphere of a local bacaro. A cicchetti night promises an exploration of flavors, textures, and aromas that exemplify the essence of Venetian cuisine. Read more.