Knights of Columbus Council 560

Knights of Columbus Council 560 is a local chapter of the global Catholic fraternal service order, the Knights of Columbus. Located in Muncie, Indiana, Council 560 is part of a vast network of over 17,000 councils worldwide, all dedicated to serving their communities through various charitable activities.

History and Background

The Knights of Columbus was founded by Father Michael J. McGivney on March 29, 1882, in New Haven, Connecticut. Initially, it served as a mutual benefit society for working-class and immigrant Catholics, providing support and insurance to families in need. Over time, the organization has grown to encompass a wide range of charitable endeavors, including support for education, local parishes, refugee relief, and global social causes.

Council 560 in Muncie, Indiana, continues this legacy by focusing on community service, faith, family, youth, and fellowship. Its members come from a diverse age group, united by their faith and commitment to helping those in need.

Charitable Activities

Council 560 is actively involved in numerous charitable initiatives within the Muncie community. Key areas of focus include:

• Parish Support: Council 560 provides significant financial support to local parishes, including St. Francis of Assisi, St. Lawrence, and St. Mary, contributing financially to their ministries and events.
• Education and Youth Activities: The council supports educational initiatives and youth programs, such as post-secondary scholarships and financial assistance to local schools and youth clubs like the Boys and Girls Clubs of Muncie.
• Local Civic Organizations: Council 560 supports a variety of local organizations, including the St. Vincent DePaul Society, the Soup Kitchen of Muncie, and the Special Olympics of Delaware County.
• International Ministries: The council also extends its charitable work internationally, supporting projects like the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Orphanage Foundation and Haiti Library Foundation.

Annual Events

One of the prominent events hosted by Council 560 is the annual charity golf tournament, held at Crestview Golf Course in Muncie. The tournament helps raise funds for core charities, including Gibault Children’s Services, the Soup Kitchen of Muncie, and local Catholic parishes. Since its inception, the golf tournament has been successful in raising significant funds for these organizations.

Conclusion

Knights of Columbus Council 560 is a testament to the enduring mission of the Knights of Columbus to serve, protect, and defend those in need. Through its charitable initiatives and community engagement, Council 560 embodies the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism that define the Knights of Columbus worldwide.