The Knights of Columbus Trustees of Morrison, IL, believe “it is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts, 20:35) They demonstrated this twice in one week, with donations totaling $1400, to aid Morrison Junior High Special Education students and participants of White Oaks Therapeutic Equestrian Center (WHOA.)
The Knights are committed to raising annual funds in support of persons with intellectual disabilities. They accomplish this via the September Tootsie-Roll Drive. Money funds the Special Olympics and local programs.
Teacher Sue Ligons was contacted by the organization to supply a list of classroom needs. Her wish list included an instructional math skills book for herself and eight student texts; several math manipulatives; classroom sets of four novels. On Wednesday, October 7, 2015, the $500 grant money was presented, to cover the cost of those teaching supplies. Shown left-to-right are Morrison Superintendent of Schools Scott Vance; Ligons; Special Ed teacher Chris Tichler; Grand Knight Terry Hoehn; Trustee Mark Zinnen; Junior High Principal Joe Robbins.
A second presentation occurred Saturday, October 10, at the Whiteside County Fairgrounds, prior to classes for three girls. Horses were saddled and waiting for their young riders. At far right, Grand Knight Terry Hoehn presented a check for $900 to WHOA Barn Manager Tawny Wiersema. Trustee Steve Hollister attended.
Hoehn thanked “everyone who participated and gave locally” and supported the Special Olympics. “It’s our privilege to raise the money to support your cause,” he told Wiersema.
Who are the Knights of Columbus?
Thanks to the efforts of Father Michael J. McGivney, Assistant Pastor of St. Mary’s Church in New Haven and some of his parishioners, the Connecticut State Legislature on March 29, 1882, officially chartered the Knights of Columbus as a fraternal benefit society. The Order is still true to its founding principles of charity, unity, and fraternity.
The Knights was formed to render financial aid to members and their families. Mutual aid and assistance are offered to sick, disabled, and needy members and their families. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief, and public relief works.