About Us
Located in beautiful Fairfax, Virginia, Italian Heritage Lodge #2517 is the local chapter of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America (OSDIA).
The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America was established in 1905 as Ordine Figli d’Italia in America. (“Figli” in Italian can mean either “sons” or “sons and daughters.”) Originally, it was a mutual aid society for the early Italian immigrants. Today OSDIA has more than 600,000 members and a network of more than 700 chapters from coast to coast. Our lodge, founded in 1981, is a northern Virginia chapter of OSDIA, one of nine chapters in the Grand Lodge of Virginia.
Our missions parallel those of the state and national OSDIA organizations. For example, we carry on our Italian and Italian-American traditions, we promote the preservation of the Italian culture by supporting Italian language training in our schools, and we even participate in optional language classes as a lodge activity.
Like other OSDIA chapters we proudly raise considerable funds for charities like Autism, Alzheimer’s, and Cooley’s Anemia. We do so through such activities as walkathons, casino nights, and other fund raising activities.
We convene for general membership meetings normally on the second Saturday of each month at the Knights of Columbus Hall behind St. Leo’s church at 3700 Old Lee Highway in Fairfax City.
At a typical meeting, we have delicious Italian food, conduct a very brief business meeting, then enjoy an interesting program. We also take field trips, enjoy banquets at other locations, meet informally for lunch, play sports together, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America (OSDIA)
OSDIA is the oldest and largest organization for men and women of Italian heritage in the United States. Founded in 1905, its mission is to preserve and promote Italian-American culture, heritage, and traditions while also supporting charitable causes, educational opportunities, and civic engagement.
What is a Grand Lodge?
A Grand Lodge is the regional governing body of OSDIA that oversees and supports the local lodges within a specific state or area. It provides leadership, resources, and guidance to help local lodges thrive, organize events, and fulfill OSDIA’s mission. The Grand Lodge also coordinates regional events, scholarships, and charitable initiatives.
What do local lodges do?
Local lodges are community-based groups where members gather for monthly meetings, social activities, and charitable projects. They host cultural events, holiday celebrations, and fundraisers while also providing opportunities for members to connect with their Italian heritage and give back to their communities.
Do I have to be of Italian descent to join?
Membership requirements vary by lodge, but many welcome individuals who share an appreciation for Italian culture, regardless of heritage. Check with your local lodge or the Grand Lodge for specific membership guidelines.
What types of events do the lodges host?
Lodges organize a wide variety of events, including cultural festivals, holiday parties, spaghetti dinners, wine tastings, bocce tournaments, and guest speaker nights. Many lodges also participate in charitable activities like food drives, scholarship programs, and community service projects.
What is the difference between chapter membership and at-large membership?
OSDIA lodge members can vote and hold office in OSDIA. They are entitled to all the benefits offered on OSDIA.org, as well as benefits offered by their lodges. At-large members cannot vote or run for office in OSDIA, but are entitled to all other benefits.
Where is OSDIA's headquarters
The OSDIA National Office is located near Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., at 219 E St. NE, Washington, DC 20002. Click here to visit their website.
Does OSDIA lobby?
OSDIA and its subsidiaries do not lobby. OSDIA and the CSJ do advocate on issues of significance to OSDIA’s membership and all the nation’s Italian Americans.