Over the past century, UNICO and its members answered the call to those in need, from providing relief to Italian earthquake victims and their communities to supporting the families after the 911 attack in New York City. The organization also supports numerous educational initiatives, including providing student scholarships and promoting the study of Italian language in high schools. UNICO has endowed chairs at several universities to promote Italian American Studies and the rich history of Italy.

UNICO promotes a positive image of Italian Americans, one of the largest ethnic groups in the nation. The more than 16 million Italian Americans are interwoven into the fabric of the United States and have profoundly contributed in all areas of our nation, from the arts to business to science and law. UNICO celebrates these Italian American contributions and achievements while promoting the durable bond between the United States and Italy.

UNICO was founded in 1922 by Dr. Anthony P. Vastola in Waterbury, Connecticut, to unite people of Italian heritage in an organization to perform charitable, patriotic and educational deeds.