Organization

Central Council

The Italian Catholic Federation is a California 501C (8), non-profit, fraternal organization. The structure of the Italian Catholic Federation follows the common lines of other fraternal non-profits with one important exception. The governing body, or Central Council, has independent authority in certain specific matters, but above all, it serves as a guarantee that no deviation from Catholic principles occur.

The Central Council is made up of 20 volunteer members. Ten are elected each year by the delegates at the annual convention and serve a one-year term. The remaining 10 serve 6 years as “Life Members.”

The Central Council is governed by the Central Council Statutes, which set forth the procedural, administrative, and legislative powers to which it is empowered to exercise. Daily administrative operations are handled by a Bookkeeper, Editor, and Administrative Secretary. The ICF Spiritual Director receives a stipend for his work among Federation Branches.

The Mission Statement, found in the Central Council Statutes, states: “Through families and fellowship, the Italian Catholic Federation promotes and supports the Catholic faith and its values, encourages apostolic and charitable works, and celebrates our Italian-American heritage and all the heritages of our communities.”

Districts and Branches

Three or more Branches may form a District Council. The purpose of the District Council shall be to coordinate activities of the District, to promote District and Branch activities, and to cooperate with other Districts in Diocesan programs. The District has administrative but not legislative power. Each District is governed by their own set of By-Laws.

Members join the Italian Catholic Federation by affiliating with a local Branch at a parish. Each Branch is urged to support the organization-wide programs of ministry as well as work closely with the Parish Pastor in support of Parish Programs. The purpose of the Branch is to uphold and develop the religious spirit among its members and to spread that spirit among all people outside of the organization. All nationalities are welcome to be admitted as members of the ICF.

The Italian Catholic Federation (ICF) is a family-oriented, non-profit fraternal organization dedicated to promoting activities that build faith and family spirit and bring men, women and children of all ages together. By joining a local branch, ICF members share their culture, heritage and religious beliefs. We believe that together we accomplish more than one can alone. We are active in various cultural events throughout the country, support our local parishes, and provide various charities with financial and other support.