Genealogy
Genealogy & Family Heritage at the Naples Italian American Foundation
The Family Heritage Initiative
Discover. Preserve. Share your family’s story.
Every family has a story — where you came from, who came before you, and how their lives shaped your own.
At the Naples Italian American Foundation, genealogy is more than names and dates. It is about memory, identity, and legacy.
The Family Heritage Initiative brings together genealogy, storytelling, and Italian cultural history in a welcoming, guided experience designed for all levels — from beginners to seasoned researchers.
What Is The Family Heritage Initiative?
The Family Heritage Initiative is NIAF’s signature genealogy and storytelling program. It is a coordinated suite of workshops, discussions, and projects that help individuals and families:
- Learn practical genealogy skills
- Preserve memories across generations
- Connect personal stories to Italian history and culture
Whether your roots are in Italy or elsewhere, the Initiative focuses on family first — helping you understand and preserve the people and stories that matter most.
Our Approach: More Than Traditional Genealogy
Many people think genealogy is only about charts and records. We believe it also includes:
- Family stories passed down around the table
- Memories of parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents
- Cultural traditions, food, language, and values
- The emotional connection between generations
Our programs combine research tools with storytelling and reflection, creating a richer and more meaningful experience.
Programs & Experiences
Discovering Your Family Story
An introductory experience focused on memory, storytelling, and personal reflection. Participants learn how to capture family narratives, organize memories, and begin documenting their family history — even before crossing the ocean.
Ideal for:
- Beginners
- Families just starting their journey
- Anyone interested in preserving memories for children and grandchildren
- Family stories passed down around the table
- Memories of parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents
- Cultural traditions, food, language, and values
- The emotional connection between generations
Researching Your Italian Roots
A hands-on workshop series focused on Italian genealogy research. Participants learn how to navigate Italian civil records, church records, and online archives, with guidance on surnames, towns, and historical context.
Ideal for:
- Those ready to explore Italian records
- Participants with known towns or family clues
- Anyone curious about Italian migration and history
Special Projects & Community Initiatives
Throughout the year, the Family Heritage Initiative may include special projects such as:
- Intergenerational memory projects
- Themed storytelling prompts
- Community-wide heritage surveys
- Collaborative preservation efforts
- Talks and discussions on Italian family history
- These projects allow members and participants to contribute to a shared cultural legacy.
Who Should Participate?
The Family Heritage Initiative is open to:
- NIAF members
- Community members
- Families and individuals of all ages
- Beginners and experienced researchers alike
You do not need prior genealogy experience. Curiosity is enough.
Why NIAF?
As a cultural foundation, NIAF is uniquely positioned to connect personal family stories with broader Italian history, traditions, and values. Our programs emphasize:
- Education
- Cultural preservation
- Community connection
- Intergenerational engagement
This is genealogy grounded in culture — and culture grounded in family.
Join the Journey
Whether you are just beginning to ask questions or are deep into research, the Family Heritage Initiative offers a welcoming place to learn, reflect, and connect.
👉 View Upcoming Workshops & Events
👉 Join Our Mailing List for Genealogy Programs
👉 Request Additional Information
