The Keystone Chapter of Italian-American service organization UNICO National has made great strides in its first year. Now, it's time to celebrate, while also adhering to its "service above self" ethos.

On Saturday, April 13, the Keystone Chapter will mark its first anniversary with a Charity Pig Roast at Fiorelli's in Peckville. Admission is $45, with proceeds benefiting Children's Advocacy Center of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

"You don't really hear about any pig roasts in Lackawanna County. We just thought it would be a little different for a fundraiser," said Mark McDade, president of the Keystone Chapter and honorary chairman for the event.

The event begins with appetizers and open bar from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by dinner and dancing from 7 to 10. In addition to the pig, there will be an Italian buffet, Italian desserts like biscotti and Italian liqueurs like anisette and sambuca.

Live music will be provided by Dani-elle Kleha and Danny Argo and Friends. There also will be a variety of basket raffles.

Based in Dunmore, the Keystone Chapter formed last year as a separate entity from the Scranton Chapter, which is the largest UNICO chapter in the country.

"It was just something that needed to expand and grow," said Mr. McDade's wife, Michele, who is chairing the pig roast with Peter Noto, Cathy Bianchi and Mary DePalma.

The Keystone Chapter already boasts 141 members, and is currently the third biggest chapter nationally, according to Mr. McDade, currently UNICO National's membership and retention director.

"And there's more joining soon, so we expect to be No. 2 by June," he said.

Besides celebrating Italian culture - among other things, it offers Italian language classes - the Keystone Chapter has a scholarship fund and donates to a number of local charities.

"We're hoping to make a sizable amount of money for the Children's Advocacy Center," Mr. McDade said.

Contact the writer: [email protected], @jmcauliffeTT on TwitterIf you go

What: Charity Pig Roast celebrating the Keystone Chapter of UNICO National's first anniversary

Where: Fiorelli's, 1501 Main St., Peckville

When: Saturday, April 13, 6 to 10 p.m.

Details: Tickets are $45. Reservations are required, and can be made by calling James or Mary Mack at 342-7975.

by Josh McAuliffe