Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus (often abbreviated as K of C) is a global Catholic fraternal service order founded on March 29, 1882, by Blessed Michael J. McGivney, a parish priest in New Haven, Connecticut. The organization primarily serves its members and their families, with a commitment to charitable works and promoting the Catholic faith. As of 2024, the Knights reported more than 2.1 million members worldwide.

Mission and Structure

The Knights of Columbus operates with the core principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. Membership is open to practicing Catholic men, while women may participate through affiliated organizations such as the Columbiettes. The order is structured into local councils, with over 17,000 councils established globally, including more than 400 on college campuses. Leadership is provided by a Supreme Knight, currently Patrick E. Kelly, alongside a Supreme Chaplain and local council leaders.

Charitable Activities

Charity is the foremost principle of the Knights of Columbus, with significant engagement in various humanitarian efforts. In 2023, the organization reported contributing approximately $190 million and 47 million volunteer hours to charitable projects. Key areas of focus include:

• Disaster Relief: The Knights of Columbus has a long history of providing assistance during natural disasters, having raised significant funds for victims of events such as the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

• Support for Refugees: The order has been actively involved in aiding refugees, providing over $20 million from 2014 to 2018 for persecuted Christians and other religious minorities in the Middle East, as well as assisting asylum seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border.

• Health Initiatives: The Knights advocate for pro-life measures, including funding for ultrasound machines for pregnancy centers. Their initiatives also include blood drives and support for health-related charities.

• Educational Support: The organization offers scholarships for seminarians and other students attending Catholic institutions, reinforcing its commitment to education within the Catholic community.

Financial Services

The Knights of Columbus operates a robust financial services arm, which includes an insurance company that provides a variety of insurance products to members. This entity has achieved significant recognition, being listed as a Fortune 1000 company based on its annual revenue. The organization also manages investment opportunities through Knights of Columbus Asset Advisors, adhering to Catholic social teachings in its investment strategies.

Community Impact

The Knights of Columbus actively promote civic engagement and community service. Local councils frequently engage in fundraising and volunteering for various community needs, from food drives to support for local parishes. The order's commitment to aiding those in need is reflected in programs like "Coats for Kids," which has distributed over a million winter coats to children in need since its inception.

Conclusion

With a legacy of over 140 years, the Knights of Columbus continue to embody the principles of charity and service within the Catholic community. Through their extensive charitable activities, financial offerings, and community involvement, they strive to make a meaningful impact both locally and on a global scale. The organization's focus on faith, fraternity, and service remains central to its mission.