As part of the Order's ongoing support of Special Olympics, each jurisdiction in the United States and Canada receives a check to present to the Special Olympics organization in its state, province, or territory every year.
The check amount is based on council participation in Special Olympics programming in your jurisdiction compared to other jurisdictions within your membership division. To earn a larger check for your state deputy to present to Special Olympics, encourage councils to report their participation in Special Olympics programs through the online Fraternal Programs Report Form (#10784). State Councils who support Special Olympics events can report their participation with this survey.
All participation taking place in calendar year 2024 must be reported through the online #10784 by January 31, 2025 to be considered in the rankings. Rankings will be determined, and checks will be issued, by April 2025. Rankings are based on categories such as number of volunteers, volunteer hours, and donations.
Data reported by councils through the #10784 will be made available starting in September.
Thus far, 3 councils have reported participation in your jurisdiction for the 2024 calendar year.
This fraternal year presents a multitude of opportunities to participate in Special Olympics events, such as the popular Law Enforcement Torch Run, Polar Plunge, Unified Sports and seasonal Special Olympics Games.
Councils can find a Special Olympics program guide sheet and posters by clicking on the “resource” button found at kofc.org/olympics. As a “Featured Program,” councils that provide at least $2,000 in donations or 200 service hours earn 2 program credits towards the Columbian Award.
Along with every Special Olympics event comes the prospect to recruit new members. Be sure to include a recruitment strategy as part of your plans. Thank you for your work to support people with intellectual disabilities!
Iaian Blamey
Manager, Life and Faith Programs
Knights of Columbus
1 Columbus Plaza
New Haven, CT 06510
203-800-4957