Founded in 1968
In 1968, a group of immigrants from Vallelonga — a small town nestled in the mountains of Calabria, in southern Italy — came together in Toronto with a simple but powerful idea: to stay connected to where they came from.
They founded Club Vallelonga-Monserrato as a social club, a gathering place, and a living expression of Vallelonghese identity in Canada. From the very beginning, entire families attended — grandparents, parents, and children — sharing the traditions, food, music, and faith they had carried across the ocean.
More than five decades later, that founding spirit lives on. What began as a gathering of immigrant families has grown into a multigenerational community — one that continues to celebrate its roots while building something meaningful in its adopted home of Toronto.
The name "Monserrato" honours the Madonna di Monserrato, one of the beloved Marian patrons of Vallelonga — a connection to faith that has always been at the heart of the club's identity.
Our Milestones
Club Vallelonga-Monserrato is founded in Toronto by immigrants from Vallelonga, Calabria. The first social gatherings bring together families united by shared heritage.
The club launches La Lumera, its annual magazine — a publication dedicated to preserving the stories, events, and members that define Club Vallelonga-Monserrato.
The San Martino Dinner Dance becomes an annual fixture — a celebration of the feast of San Martino that brings together the entire community each November. The Festa della Madonna celebrations honour the club's deep faith and Marian devotion.
The club establishes its annual scholarship program, recognizing students who embody the values of community, heritage, and excellence — presented each year at the San Martino Dinner Dance.
Club Vallelonga-Monserrato continues to thrive, led by a dedicated volunteer committee and supported by members across generations. The traditions live on — and the community grows stronger every year.
Why We Gather
We exist to preserve and celebrate the traditions, heritage, faith, and community spirit of Vallelonga and Monserrato — connecting generations, honouring our past, and building something lasting for those who come after us.
The Madonna Statues
Madonna di Monserrato
One of the beloved Marian patrons of Vallelonga. The Madonna di Monserrato holds a special place in the hearts of our members — a connection to faith, homeland, and the devotion carried across generations.
Madonna di Maggiore
The Madonna di Maggiore is another cherished presence at our Social Centre. Both statues are open for members to visit — a quiet place of reflection and devotion in the heart of our club. Please book an appointment to visit by emailing us at clubvm@gmail.com.
📍 On display at our Social Centre
84 Colville Rd Unit 1-A, Toronto, ON M6M 2Y4 · Book an appointment: clubvm@gmail.com · Donate to support their care →