The Knights of Columbus announced a $1.4 million donation today to cover expenses of U.S. and Canadian athletes participating in next year’s Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles.
Organizers said the donation by the Catholic fraternal organization would cover costs of food, transportation and entertainment.
“The Knights of Columbus were there with Special Olympics and its founder, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, from the very beginning,” Supreme Knight Carl Anderson said. “Sargent Shriver, Eunice’s husband, was a friend and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, and like him, we are here today to continue those efforts on behalf of people with intellectual disabilities.
“Our support exemplifies our commitment to the dignity of every person, our dedication to assisting with our neighbors’ needs whatever they may be, and our deep appreciation for the great work done by Special Olympics,” he said.
Patrick McClenahan, president and CEO of Special Olympics World Games Los Angeles 2015, acknowledged the long support of Special Olympics by Knights of Columbus, calling the latest donation “another amazing milestone.”
“We hope their donation inspires other organizations to be a part of what will no doubt be a life-changing experience for all involved in the 2015 Special Olympic World Games,” McClenahan said.
According to Special Olympics, Knights of Columbus councils donated more than $3.5 million to Special Olympics last year, and provided more than 250,000 hours of service at nearly 20,000 Special Olympics events.
More than 7,000 athletes from 170 nations are expected to compete in the games, which will be held from July 25 to Aug. 2, 2015. Organizers expected a half-million spectators to attend, along with 30,000 volunteers and 3,000 coaches. It will be the first time the World Summer Games are held in the United States since 1999.
Opening ceremonies will be held at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Events will be held across the Southland, including venues at USC and UCLA and in Long Beach, Encino and Griffith Park.
