DYKER HEIGHTS — The Federation of Italian American Organizations of Brooklyn (FIAO), a not-for-profit, charitable community service organization, held its annual Christmas/holiday party at Sirico’s Caterers the evening of Thursday, Dec. 19, drawing a crowd of over 200 attendees. 

“We all had such a great time,” Frank Naccarato, long-time FIAO board member, told the Brooklyn Eagle. “There was no program or agenda, just a celebration of the beginning of the holiday season and a thank you to all of our members.” 

Several elected officials attended the event, including Assemblymember Alec Brook-Krasny (R-46), Senator-elect Steve Chan (R-17), Assemblymember William Colton (D-47) and District Leader Nancy Tong (AD-47).

Since 1976, FIAO has been a leader in bridging the rich diversity of Brooklyn’s multicultural communities by delivering free programs and services to help improve the quality of life for all children, youth, families and seniors. The organization has 3,700 active members.

“We are filled to capacity,” Naccarato said. “It’s a good problem to have.”

Naccarato noted that membership requires individuals to be involved in FIAO activities and programs. Members also must align with FIAO’s mission statement, which is “to preserve Italian-American heritage and culture; to promote and inspire a positive image and legacy of Italian Americans; to strengthen the ties that bind one generation to the next; and to create stronger relationships within our multi-cultural society.”

Naccarato also said that while FIAO is an Italian-American center, “We have all different nationalities here. All are welcome.” 

Naccarato outlined specific goals for FIAO in 2025, including program expansion and maintaining the center. 

According to Naccarato, FIAO is all about leaving a legacy.

“Many years from now, no one will probably know who we were,” he said. “But at least we built something, and God-willing, it will be here for a very long time.”