ABOUT US
In 2003, BACIO was established by Len Paoletta, the former Mayor of Bridgeport, with a heartfelt mission to preserve Italian history, culture, and traditions for future generations of Connecticut individuals and families. Len's dedication to BACIO remains unwavering, as he continues to serve as the organization's diligent President and Chair of the Board.
The name "BACIO" translates to "kiss" in Italian, while it represents the Bridgeport Area Cultural Italian Organization.
BACIO's core focus lies in promoting, advancing, and enriching the culture and traditions of Italy, catering to Italians, Italian-Americans, and those enamored with Italian heritage, eager to learn and immerse themselves in its richness.
Through a variety of services and monthly events, BACIO provides members, their families and friends with an exposure to impactful cultural contributions from world-renowned Italian artists, sculptors, architects, writers, and musicians. Members gain a deeper appreciation for Rome, Italy's historical and intellectual luminaries who significantly shaped the principles underlying our modern Western World lifestyles.
Since its inception, BACIO has been delivering memorable experiences to its members, ranging from Italian language, wine making, and cooking classes to delightful Italian home-style dinners, theater performances, movie screenings, travel events, enlightening lectures, and engaging radio broadcasts. The organization also organizes enjoyable Holiday socials and dinners, as well as Happy Hour gatherings.
BACIO stands apart from typical Italian social organizations by focusing on cultural aspects, making it appealing to participants of all ages, from nine to ninety.
Notably, BACIO extends an inclusive invitation to people of all ethnicities to join, fostering a warm and welcoming community for everyone.
Mission Statement
BACIO is a non-profit, 501c3 organization, established in 2003, to preserve, promote and share the rich cultural history of Italy and the contributions of Italians and Italian-Americans.
GOALS
To create opportunities to experience, learn, enjoy and share Italian traditions, customs and skills that benefit individuals, families and communities in the Greater Bridgeport Region and beyond.
To preserve, promote and disseminate the rich cultural history of Italy and contributions of Italian and Italian–Americans in the United States and throughout global history.
To achieve year-over-year membership growth by developing, marketing and delivering relevant and valued services for members, their families and potential prospects.