The Knights of Columbus and the Special Olympics: A Partnership of Charity and Dignity
The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal service organization that was founded in 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney. The Order has four principles: charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. One of the main charitable causes that the Knights support is the Special Olympics, a global movement that provides sports opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities.
The Special Olympics was founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who was inspired by her sister Rosemary, who had intellectual disabilities. Eunice wanted to show the world the potential and abilities of people like her sister, and to create a more inclusive and respectful society. Her husband, Sargent Shriver, was a prominent politician and activist who also supported the Special Olympics. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.
The Knights of Columbus has been involved with the Special Olympics since its inception. The first Special Olympics Games were held at Soldier Field in Chicago in 1968, and the Knights were there to help. Since then, the Knights have raised and donated more than $600 million to programs for people with intellectual and physical disabilities, with Special Olympics being one of the largest recipients. The Knights also volunteer at local, regional, national, and international events, providing assistance in various ways, such as fundraising, feeding, organizing, judging, and awarding.
The Knights of Columbus considers its partnership with the Special Olympics as an expression of its belief in the worth and dignity of every human being. The Knights recognize that people with intellectual disabilities are not defined by their limitations, but by their gifts and talents. The Knights also see the Special Olympics as an opportunity to practice their faith in action, by serving those who are most in need of love and support.
The Knights of Columbus and the Special Olympics share a common vision of a world where everyone is valued and respected for who they are. Through their collaboration, they hope to inspire others to join them in creating a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Notre Dame Council & the Wayne/Westland Special Olympics
We are thrilled to share with you the amazing work that the Notre Dame Council has been doing with the Wayne/Westland Special Olympics. This is a wonderful organization that provides opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to participate in sports and other activities.
The Notre Dame Council has been a loyal and generous supporter of the Wayne/Westland Special Olympics for many years. We have organized various events to raise funds and awareness for this worthy cause, such as the Tootsie Roll Drive and the Food Truck Rally. These events have been a huge success, thanks to the involvement and generosity of our community partners and the public.
We are proud to announce that we have donated more than $5000.00 to the Wayne/Westland Special Olympics in the last 3 years. This money helps them to provide equipment, training, coaching, and transportation for the athletes. We are committed to continuing our support and making a positive difference in the lives of these inspiring individuals.
If you are interested in joining us in this mission, there are many ways you can get involved. You can volunteer as a coach, a helper, or a cheerleader at the events. You can donate money or goods to support the athletes. You can spread the word and invite your friends and family to attend the events. You can also follow us on social media and stay updated on our news and activities.
Please contact us if you have any questions or suggestions. We would love to hear from you and welcome you to our team. Together, we can make a difference for the Wayne/Westland Special Olympics.
Up-and-coming Events
Tootsie Roll Drive, March 22 – 24
Hi everyone! I’m so excited to share with you some amazing news. The Knights of Columbus are holding their annual tootsie roll drive the weekend of Palm Sunday, March 22 – 23, and they need your help!
What is the tootsie roll drive, you ask? Well, it’s a fundraiser where the Knights of Columbus hand out delicious tootsie rolls to the public in exchange for donations. The money raised goes to support the Wayne/Westland Special Olympics.
This is such a wonderful cause, and I’m sure you all agree. That’s why I’m inviting you to join me in supporting the Knights of Columbus.
Let’s show our gratitude and generosity to the Knights of Columbus and the people they serve. Together, we can make a difference in our community and enjoy some yummy treats along the way. Thank you for your support!
Food Truck Rally, June 14, 2024
We are thrilled to invite you to our second annual Food Truck Rally for the Wayne Special Olympics. This event is a blast for everyone who loves delicious food and great entertainment. You will find a variety of food trucks that offer different cuisines and flavors.
Whether you crave burgers, tacos, pizza, or something else, you will find it here. Plus, you will enjoy the live music by Eric the Red, a classic rock band that plays all the hits you know and love. You will also see a taekwondo demonstration and other fun activities.
The night will end with a karaoke session hosted by DJ Justin. You can sing your heart out under the stars with your friends and family. Last year, we had an amazing turnout and raised a lot of money for our local heroes, the Wayne/Westland Special Olympians.
They are gold medal winners who deserve our support and admiration. This year, we hope to do even better and make this event a memorable one for everyone involved. So, mark your calendars and join us for a day of fun and food. You will not regret it!