On Wednesday, the Knights of Columbus will celebrate Founder's Day, marking the 118th anniversary of the reception of its charter from the state of Connecticut.
The Knights of Columbus was founded by Father Michael J. McGivney, curate at St. Mary's Parish in New Haven, Conn. The organization received its charter from the state of Connecticut March 29, 1882.
Today, the Knights of Columbus is an international Catholic organization with 1.6 million members dedicated to working for the Catholic Church, community and people.
Last year, the Knights of Columbus donated 55 million hours of volunteer service and $110 million to charitable and benevolent causes.
In Nevada, the Knights are active in their support of Special Olympics and other organizations providing assistance to mentally retarded citizens.
The Knights of Columbus in Nevada will be celebrating its 90th anniversary on May 10 at its annual convention in Sparks.
The first Council of the Knights of Columbus in Nevada was formed in Reno in 1905. Today, there are more than 4,000 Knights and their families in Nevada active in their support of the church, community and youth.
Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to men 18 and up who are a practical Catholic in Union with the Holy See. Membership information can be obtained through the Internet at http://www.kofc.org.