Giving back to Northern New Jersey community

Giving back to Northern New Jersey community

The Columbians,
New Jersey based Italian-American Philanthropic Organization

The Columbians werefounded in 1982 committed to giving back to the Northern NJ Community, consisting of professional and business leaders. We are recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501 (c) (3) “tax exempt” organization.

scholarships by the Columbians

Apply for a Scholarship

Learn More
charity events

Events

Learn More
Hardship Assistance

Members
Only

Learn More

The Columbians Core Efforts

The Columbians is community minded non-profit organization formed with the following principals:
  1. To provide scholarships to young scholars in need of financial assistance. Over the years we have provided hundreds of scholarships to students meeting our high standards for scholarship funding.
  2. To provide hardship assistance to those in need after experiencing a loss, health issue, family emergency or other significant short term need for aid.
  3. To help preserve and communicate Italian heritage through awareness and education.
raised in 2022
50000
raised in 2022
scholarships awarded in 2020-2021
25000
scholarships awarded in 2020-2021
minimun award granted
1000
minimun award granted

Our Trustees

Meet the Columbians leadership
Jim Averso, the resident of the Columbians, Northern NJ
Jim Averso
President

Officers:

  • President: James A. Averso
  • Vice President: Mario Tommolillo
  • Treasurer: Anthony J. Graceffo
  • Secretary: Joseph A. Maurice

Trustees:

(listed alphabetically)

  • John Banu
  • Vincent Brana
  • Ralph Contini
  • Mike Franco
  • Ken Gebhardt
  • Nick Lagnanella
  • TJ Messinio
  • Drew Picarillo
  • Gennaro Rotella