It was another record breaking year for a local group raising funds to support organizations working with individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Pella Knights of Columbus report that their 2025 telethon and storefront fundraiser raised $82,000, supporting a wide range of local charities. Among the groups that received support this year were Pella Community Schools, Pella Christian Schools, Christian Opportunity Center, 818 Forward with Faith, and Iowa Special Olympics. Pat Bortscheller with the Knights of Columbus says they were grateful to have had another record-breaking campaign, but added that their ultimate goal is to support those serving people with intellectual disabilities.

“We talk a lot about dollars, we raise money for all the right reasons, but it’s going to people who can’t do it for themselves. And that’s the point. We’ve visited Christian Opportunity Center, and we’ve worked with the Iowa Special Olympics, we’ve been involved and that brings the heart and mind alongside the dollars. And ultimately, that’s the work we’re trying to do. These folks that we support house, care for, educate, and make opportunities available for folks that would otherwise not have them. That’s an integral part of our community and we are happy to be a part of that.”

Hear more about the Campaign for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities and the funds raised on today’s Let’s Talk Pella.