SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Category: Life Featured:


Michael Garguilo

Program Purpose

Celebrate the worth and dignity of every human being through the Special Olympics. Knights of Columbus NC Councils and Districts can work with Special Olympics county representatives to determine how best to fund, sponsor or volunteer for events in the local community.  The Special Olympics is a strong national program with particular forms to,clearly understand our volunteer effort for these special citizens.  The Spdcial Olympics North Carolina (SONC) local support is typically handled through the County Parks and Recreation Centers as an additional repsonbility.

Program Overview

The Knights of Columbus has a unique partnership with the Special Olympics and has helped disabled athletes train for and compete in games around the world. Knights of Columbus councils have assisted with all aspects of the program from fundraising to feeding the athletes, organizing and judging events, and providing equipment and awards. Without the support of the Knights, participants would not be able to train for the events that they love. Participating councils provide at least $2,000 in donations or 200 service hours in a fraternal year.

Our NC Chairman has a relationship with many state and local leaders within the NC Special Olympics and can collaborate to assist as needed.  It is recommended that someone on each council be appointed as the Special Olympics Chairman for the council and is active with the SONC in scheduling council events and SONC Knight volunteers.

The NC Special Olympic (SONC) organization has athlete events for each season of the year: Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter.  The SONC planning calendar is typically about 2-3 months ahead for your planning.  It has been created with volunteer opportunities available for councils and individual Knights to help.  It can be accessed at  https://sonc.net/special-olympics-north-carolina-sports-calendar/

 



Program Requirements

Councils are required to contribute a minimum of 200 man-hours in support of state/local Special Olympics activities, or must raise a minimum of $2,000 for Special Olympics. Report activity using the online Program Report Form (#10784).  
Resources:

Successful Program Ideas

Additional Program Ideas

Program Posts