Brothers,
My Name is Joe Curran, and I am a member of Council 8077 in Tucson. Our Worthy State Deputy,
Luigi Baratta, has asked me to be the liaison between the Arizona Knights of Columbus and Special Olympics Arizona (SOAZ). I gladly accepted this role as I have a passion of supporting the athletes of SOAZ.
As Knights we are to celebrate the worth and dignity of every human being; this includes the athletes of Special Olympics. Knights of Columbus councils can work with Special Olympics here in Arizona to determine how best to fund, sponsor or volunteer for events in our local communities.
The Knights of Columbus has a unique partnership with Special Olympics and has helped athletes with intellectual disabilities 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, judging events, and providing equipment and awards.
Councils supporting SOAZ are fulfilling a Life Program of Faith in Action.
Featured Program Requirements
• For two program credits toward the Columbian Award – Contribute a minimum of 200 volunteer hours or $2,000 in support of Special Olympics activities.
Action Steps
1. Identify a program chairman from your council to oversee all action steps and delegate tasks, as needed
2. Contact the state Special Olympics chairman to see how the council might be of assistance.
3. Set council goals for man hours and funds to be donated to Special Olympics.
4. Build public interest of Special Olympics events! Promote in your parish and larger community through a variety of efforts: • Bulletin announcements • Pulpit announcements • Posting on your council and parish website / social media pages.
5. Plan and conduct the event. Consider supporting an athlete in your council, volunteering, coaching, officiating, or hosting a Law Enforcement Torch Run. There are many fundraising activities you can get involved in participating.
6. Encourage participation of council members.
7. On the day of the event, wear Knights of Columbus-branded apparel.
8. Enlist a fellow Knight or community member to photograph the event. Special Olympics Faith in Action Life
9. To gain credit for your program, complete the associated reporting forms. • Immediately after your event is finished, complete the Fraternal Programs Report Form (#10784) • At the end of the fraternal year, complete the Columbian Award Application (#SP-7)
I welcome any ideas you may have in support of SOAZ. Please feel free to contact me at any time with questions and concerns as to how your council can get involved with SOAZ and the athletes. I have direct access to the SOAZ staff so if I can’t answer your questions, I am able to get an answer quickly.
As opportunities come up for Knights to support SOAZ, I will make sure to get the word out in the
KOCOA.
Vivat Jesus,
Joe Curran
AZ State Chairman for Special Olympics Arizona
520-331-4883
JC22925@gmail.com