ELMIRA, NY (WENY) -- A longtime club, event center and banquet facility is closing its doors, and is for sale in Elmira.

The Italian American Veterans Club was established in Elmira in the 1950's, and moved to its current location at 1070 Magee Street in Elmira in the mid-1960's. The facility would host IAV meetings, club events, dances, wedding receptions, bridal and baby showers, and private gatherings.

The club was also host to a number of community events, offering free meals for veterans several times a year, hosted an annual Italian Festival, and in recent years, a car show.

Like many other social organizations, membership has declined over the years and there are fewer volunteers available to help keep the club running day to day. After trying for the last several years to keep the club going, IAV Commander Geno Dunn said it's time to let it go, and put the building up for sale. Dunn and his wife Jackie Peterson have operated the facility for the past 15 years or so, and cite their age and declining health as reasons they also need to step back.

"I hate to do it, I know it’s been a staple of this community for years, a lot of people have had a lot of functions here, but without getting more volunteers in here to help, it’s become harder to do it. With yourself or your wife trying to maintain the club, it’s just not conducive," Dunn said.

Dunn said he hopes a buyer will keep the IAV building as an event space, or possibly a restaurant. Right now, the club is giving away historical items and memorabilia to members or family members. Other items are being sold. Proceeds from the real estate sale will be donated to other non-profit organizations. 

The building, which is more than 5,000 square feet, has a commercial kitchen, bar, sunken dance floor, and can seat 200 people. The property is currently listed for sale a $299,999.