[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]In conceiving the grand framework of the Association, Guido Venosta had the winning idea: to spread the activity and interest in the Association nationwide by establishing regional branches led by the most representative figures possible\u2014individuals who, due to their social standing, income, cultural background, or career achievements, were especially well known to the public, particularly on a local level, though not exclusively.<\/p>\n
In his book\u00a0Dal profit al nonprofit<\/i>, Venosta considers the establishment of the Regional Committees as decisive, \u201cthe keystone for an objectively outstanding consensus in terms of quantity (today [1997, editor\u2019s note] AIRC members number over 1,700,000), loyalty, and dynamism. The Committees were\u2014and still are\u2014the essential \u2018node\u2019 of the Association\u2019s life, the \u2018interactive hub\u2019 that enables a harmonious local presence in line with local mindsets, customs, and sensitivities, as well as providing precise and swift feedback on centrally planned initiatives, thereby allowing for targeted management of the Association\u2019s true asset: the trust of the people, which is the adherence to its institutional purpose combined with the individual\u2019s recognition within the community.\u201d (VENOSTA,\u00a0Dal profit al nonprofit<\/i>, pp. 16\u201317).<\/p>\n
A genuine nationwide presence of AIRC, therefore: in Venosta\u2019s era, the work of the Committees\u2014whether operating autonomously or as part of large national initiatives\u2014accounted for roughly two-thirds of AIRC\u2019s fundraising. Today, they remain the soul of the Association, rooted in the founding principles that Guido elaborated, and \u201cthe main link with the AIRC volunteers, an army of over 20,000 people who, on both national and local occasions, contribute their efforts free of charge within their own regions.\u201d (AIRC,\u00a0Chi siamo: i Comitati regionali<\/i>).<\/p>\n
Sources:<\/b>
\nAlbiate (MB), Villa San Valerio, Villa San Valerio Archives, Guido Venosta Archive, Unpublished Memoirs (1997\u20131998), pp. 39bis\u201340bis.<\/p>\n