The John Paul II Council is very proud to have been a supporter of the Pennsylvania Special Olympics for a decade. Our goal every year is to contribute $2000 to the Special Olympics of North East Pennsylvania. We do this by a number of fundraisers but our most significant is our Red White and Blue Raffle.

Knights of Columbus and Special Olympics: A Partnership of Love and Service

For more than half a century, the Knights of Columbus have been proud partners with the Special Olympics, standing side-by-side with athletes who show the world the meaning of courage, joy, and determination. This longstanding relationship is rooted in the Knights’ deep commitment to the dignity of every human person and their mission to serve the most vulnerable members of society.

A Legacy of Support

The relationship between the Knights of Columbus and Special Olympics began in 1968, the same year that Eunice Kennedy Shriver founded the Special Olympics. Recognizing the beauty and importance of this mission, the Knights quickly became one of the first organizations to provide both financial and volunteer support. Since then, Knights across the world have contributed millions of dollars and countless hours to make these games possible.

Today, Knights serve as volunteers, coaches, event organizers, and enthusiastic cheerleaders at local, state, national, and international Special Olympics events. Whether it’s distributing water, helping with logistics, or simply sharing a smile, the Knights are there—offering not just help, but genuine friendship.

Living the Principle of Charity

Charity is the first and greatest principle of the Knights of Columbus, and the Special Olympics gives councils a beautiful way to live out that principle in action. Every interaction with an athlete is a reminder that every person is made in the image and likeness of God. By serving Special Olympics athletes, Knights are not just giving—they’re receiving a powerful witness of joy, faith, and perseverance.

Fundraising and Financial Commitment

The Supreme Council annually donates significant funds to support Special Olympics programs. Local councils are encouraged to do the same, often organizing fundraisers like pancake breakfasts, raffles, and golf outings to raise money for their state or regional Special Olympics chapters. Councils that donate at least $2,000 and contribute 200 volunteer hours annually to Special Olympics receive recognition through the Special Olympics Program Award.

Many councils also participate in the Special Olympics Partnership Profile Report Form (#10784), documenting their involvement and ensuring that their good work is counted toward Faith in Action program requirements.

Building Inclusive Communities

At its heart, the Knights of Columbus-Special Olympics partnership is about inclusion. It’s about building communities where individuals with intellectual disabilities are not just supported—they are celebrated. Through this relationship, Knights help break down barriers and promote a culture of life where all are welcome and all are loved.

Get Involved

If your council hasn’t yet participated in Special Olympics activities, now is the time. Find out when your local games are scheduled, contact your state Special Olympics office, and volunteer as a team. You’ll find that what begins as a service opportunity often becomes a cherished tradition and a highlight of your council’s year.

Together, the Knights of Columbus and Special Olympics remind us all: greatness is not found in trophies or titles, but in love shared, smiles given, and lives touched.