Cultural Italian American Organization

Preserving Heritage, Inspiring Students. Bringing Italian Language and Culture to Our High Schools, Colleges and Community.

Our Mission

The mission of the Cultural Italian American Organization (CIAO) is to instill students with a love of learning language, culture and history. This theory, integrated with a modern standards-based curriculum will prepare them for the increasingly broader world view, including the use of language other than English, required to participate successfully in the new global economy.

Our Goals

To increase the availability of an Italian Language and Culture education program for high school age students in the Boston catchment area, colleges, and the community, that will result in students functionally fluent in the Italian language and will have a deep appreciation and understanding of Italian culture. The utilization of effective methodological approaches which address the various types of learning styles; visual, auditory, reading and writing, will result in students second language acquisition with near native fluency.

Why Your Support Matters

The Cultural Italian American Organization (CIAO) is dedicated to restoring and expanding Italian language education in high schools and colleges through a comprehensive four-year program. Our mission is rooted in preserving heritage, strengthening cultural identity, and opening academic and career pathways for future generations.

Today, many schools no longer offer Italian programs due to funding limitations—not lack of interest. With your support, we can change that.

Italian is more than a language—it is a gateway to history, art, music, science, and global opportunity. By supporting CIAO, you help:

  • Reintroduce Italian language programs into schools that have lost them

  • Provide students with a full four-year learning pathway

  • Preserve Italian American heritage for future generations

  • Create opportunities in international business, travel, education, and cultural exchange

  • Strengthen community connections across Massachusetts and beyond

Every contribution directly impacts students and schools.

Ways to Support

Invest in culture. Invest in students. Invest in the future.

CIAO is more than a program—it’s a movement to reconnect students with language, culture, and opportunity. With your help, we can ensure that Italian remains a vibrant and accessible part of education in our schools.

Make a Donation

Your financial support helps us build and sustain Italian language programs in schools. Donations fund:

  • Curriculum development and materials

  • Qualified educators and program support

  • Classroom resources and cultural programming

Whether it’s a one-time gift or ongoing contribution, every dollar brings us closer to expanding access.

Send donations to:

Dr. Paul Sergi, CIAO, P.O. Box 302, Canton, MA 02021 or Venmo: @paul-sergi-2

Volunteer Your Time

Passionate about Italian culture or education? Join us.

Volunteers can assist with:

  • Program outreach to schools and communities

  • Event planning and coordination

  • Cultural presentations and student engagement

  • Administrative and organizational support

Your time and expertise can make a lasting difference.

Fundraise With Us

Help us grow our impact by organizing or participating in fundraising efforts.

Ways to get involved:

  • Host community events or cultural nights

  • Partner with local businesses

  • Organize school or college fundraising campaigns

  • Participate in seasonal or annual giving initiatives

Together, we can build a strong network of support that sustains Italian education for years to come.