CIAO Events
Community Integration of Aviano Organization (CIAO)
CIAO's motto is Support, Strengthen, & Serve.
CIAO is an all-inclusive charitable and social organization committed to supporting our community and improving the quality of life at Aviano Air Base in Italy.
Their mission is to promote charitable endeavors that benefit the Aviano Air Base community and to foster morale, goodwill, and fellowship among our membership, and our host nation. The organization is made up of all volunteers, who give their time to help better their community.
CIAO is primarily a philanthropic organization. Each year, they provide over $20,000 in scholarships to high school seniors and spouses, and over $110,000 of support to the Aviano AB community. This work does not just happen; it takes a community of volunteers, and our members are instrumental in that.
Aviano Thrift Store Grand Opening
In October 2022, CIAO geared up for an official grand opening of its thrift store in a new location. Aviano Thrift Store is the primary source for CIAO's scholarship funds. It is managed and staffed by volunteers, 100% of the proceeds are returned to Aviano High School students and spouses for merit-based scholarships.
Scholarship Ball for Senior Recipients
One of CIAO's main purposes is to offer scholarships to students in their community. In 2023, CIAO awarded students a total of $15,500. The ability to fund these scholarships comes from the Aviano thrift Store and fundraising events.
Airmen Cookie Drive
CIAO volunteers took on the challenge of hosting the largest cookie drive to date. The cookie drive relies entirely on cookie donations to provide goody bags to single airmen, on and off base. Single airmen can fell especially alone during the season and this kind gesture shows them they are valued. This year, 1,250 bags of cookies, totaling 15,000 cookies and 1,300 handmade cards from children throughout the U.S. were distributed to airmen.
CIAO Connect: Gelato& Waffles
Known for their specialize honey from free-roaming bees in the foothills of the Dolomites. Apicoltura Gorgazzo welcomed CIAO for two social events in 2022. Marking the beginning of CIAO Connect events. These Waffle & Gelato social gathered members to explore new places, but CIAO's dedication to integration means making learning about the culture fun, easy, and, most important delicious! These social events are opportunities to meet new people and interact with the community, all while giving back to CIAO.
