The Orange County American Italian Renaissance Foundation

Photos of Frank's Benefit

In 1981, Several members of the Renaissance Lodge of the

Order of the Sons of Italy envisioned an Italian Cultural Center to serve Italians in rapidly growing Orange County, CA. They provided $10,000 in startup funds for that purpose and formed OCAIRF to continue in an effort to realize this dream. Since that time more money has been raised through many activities.

In June of 1992, the Foundation made a monumental breakthrough by affiliating membership with the newly-remodeled in Santa Ana, California, USA thereby establishing a link to a broader Orange County community in an attractive, convenient facility to hold events and board meetings. Bowers Museum of Cultural Art is also one of the most prestigious museums in California.OCAIRF in commemoration of the Quincenteninary of Columbus' discovery of America , sponsered this original Columbus bronze by artist Domenico Mazzone. The sculpture was installed at Bowers Museum and unveiled on Columbus Day 1992.