SOMO News
Knights of Columbus awarded SOMO’s highest honor
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oj9KCOty7RE&w=560&h=315]
(Jefferson City) The Missouri state Knights of Columbus was recognized for its outstanding contributions to Special Olympics Missouri at the 2016 SOMO Annual Awards Luncheon Jan. 16 in Branson. Each year, Special Olympics Missouri salutes those who have made significant contributions to the Special Olympics movement. Past honorees have included Missouri State Parks, Missouri Association of Student Councils, Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri/Illinois Dodge Dealers and more.
This is only the second time since 1988 that the Special Olympics Missouri Board of Directors has recognized an organization twice for the Award of Excellence. The Knights of Columbus was first recognized in 1991 for its long-term commitment to the mission through financial support of Special Olympics Missouri.
Knights of Columbus past state deputy and current SOMO board of directors member Brad Grill accepts the award from current SOMO board of directors chair Dr. Phil Cook.
Twenty-five years later, that long-term commitment has extended beyond its initial purpose as the Knights of Columbus has committed to raising $1 million for the Training for Life Campus (www.SOMOCampus.org). The annual contribution of funds from the Knights, the volunteers, meals and honor guards they bring to competitions and fundraisers they put on such as Cosmic Bingo, Denim and Diamonds is what makes them not just a donor, but a part of the SOMO family.
“The Knights of Columbus is proud of its partnership with Special Olympics Missouri,” said Keith Milson, Knights of Columbus State Deputy. “We consider our work on behalf of the athletes and their families as one of our highest callings and greatest achievements! We look forward to many, many more years of collaboration and support to (SOMO).”
Knights of Columbus past state deputy Brad Grill was in attendance to accept the award.
For information about Special Olympics Missouri, the Annual Award recipients or the 2016 SOMO Leadership Summit, including photos and video from the banquet, please contact Brandon Schatsiek at 573-635-1660 or email Schatsiek@somo.org.