IARA Italian American Relief Association

09/11/2026

On a cold February morning in 2011, Frank Lucchese and I — Larry App — carefully scanned nearly every photograph hanging on the walls of the Italian Club (IARA) on Harrison Street in Elkhart, Indiana.

These weren’t just old pictures. They were the faces of the Italian families who built a neighborhood, a culture, and a legacy that remains today.

On September 27, 2026, the Italian American Relief Association (IARA) celebrates its 100th anniversary. The club looks different now — fewer Italian families, a changed purpose — but it stands because of the people in those photographs.

This video honors some of the original members — the men and women whose lives helped shape Elkhart’s Italian community into a legacy.

09/01/2026

100 Years!!! Come Celebrate!!!

07/01/2026

Here is a gift that "Aunt" Mary Lucchese left us. In 2011, Frank Lucchese and Larry App interviewed 20 Italians who lived in the Harrison Street neighborhood and made a video documentary of it. Although today she is having a reunion with some family members in Heaven, she leaves us a lovely conversation filled with valuable wisdom. Thank you to this wonderful lady, who touched so many lives and will be greatly missed.

06/29/2026

Prayers for a sweet soul and her family 🙏

View Mary Lucchese's obituary, send flowers and sign the guestbook.

06/03/2026

Celebrating the Feast of St. Anthony at the IARA Club

The Feast of St. Anthony of Padua is celebrated annually on June 13 to honor the saint's death, known for his devotion to the poor and as the patron saint of lost items.

Date: Saturday June 13, 2026
Time: 6 to 9 pm

All are welcome.

Please share the date and time with others.

Please bring finger food to share.

Pop/Water & Bonfire will be provided

04/23/2026

COME JOIN US!!!