
American
Philanthropic
Organization

the Columbians

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.
The Columbians Core Efforts
The Columbians is community minded non-profit organization formed with the following principals:
- 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.
- To provide hardship assistance to those in need after experiencing a loss, health issue, family emergency or other significant short term need for aid.
- To help preserve and communicate Italian heritage through awareness and education.

50000
raised in 2022

25000
scholarships awarded in 2020-2021

1000
minimun award granted
Our Trustees
Meet the Columbians leadership
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