Italian Culture, Community and 'la Dolce Vita' since 1952
Items of interest about us
History and Mission
For 65 years, the IBC has been a proud part of Portland's Italian community. Established by Portland businessmen of Italian heritage, the organization was formed with a twofold mission:
- Providing assistance for one of Italy's largest natural disasters, the Po River flood of 1951. That began a tradition of contributing to many worthwhile causes, both locally as well as in Italy
- Celebrating and promoting Italian culture and language
Of course, many changes have occurred over the years, as well as changing the original name, Italian Businessmen's Club to the Italian Benvenuti Club, keeping the acronym IBC.
Today's IBC consists of men and women of Italian background and others who love Italian culture, believe in our mission and 'la Dolce Vita'.
Our next event, 'la Vendemmia'
'La Vendemmia' is grape harvest in Italy, and we are fortunate that Oregon is also famous for producing great wines, many from producers with Italian roots. Each autumn we celebrate the harvest at one of the area's best and most beautiful vineyards, Ardiri in northern Willamette Valley.
On Saturday, September 16, 2017, we will host our 8th annual Italian banquet at Ardiri Vineyard.
A magnificent Italian feast of porchetta, lasagna, antipasti, gelato, soft drinks and more to accompany Ardiri's award winning wines
- The owners will discuss the year's vintage and give a tour
- Entertainment will be provided by Portland Opera
Proceeds benefit the IBC Foundation's annual scholarship fund and the Scuola Italiana di Portland
Price is $55 pre paid and $60 at the door. For information, contact Joe at:
Scholarships and Service
The IBC has remained committed to the ideals of cultural awareness and civic service upon which it was founded. Of course, being of Italian heritage, we also have a good time together in what we do.
The IBC Foundation provides an annual scholarship to a local student of Italian heritage and we provide financial and professional support to the Scuola Italiana di Portland.
Over the years, we have supported local charities and, in Italy, we have supported organizations that assist in the recovery from floods and earthquakes.
We are also members of the Festa Italiana Association and volunteer on its committees and during the annual Portland Festa in August.
Many of our social functions are fund raisers and members and friends contribute directly to support the foundation.
For more information or to inquire about membership
We would love to hear from you
Support the IBC
Your financial contributions will enable us to support and promote Italian culture in Portland!
