The Knights of Columbus in Pella 23rd Annual Campaign for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities is continuing the effort through August 28th.

Joe Lickteig has organized the fundraiser for several years, and says this year the Knights are bringing back a special telethon event at the Pella Opera House, with members of the local Knights of Columbus group calling on businesses and other individuals to raise money for the Pella and Pella Christian Special Education departments, Christian Opportunity Center, Wonder Spelen Miracle Playground, and the Iowa Special Olympics.

The KNIA/KRLS Lil’ Big Red Radio will be at the event on Tuesday from 1 to 4 p.m., with several interviews featuring local individuals who work for those organizations or have family members with intellectual disabilities. Bella Van Gorp, who will be a sophomore at Central College this fall, was featured during last year’s event, and this summer, was the first runner-up in the Miss Amazing contest. She is thankful for the opportunities afforded to her through the organizations supported by the Knights of Columbus.

A variety show will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, with $5 admission further supporting the Campaign for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities. The Pella Knights of Columbus are also collecting donations in front of the Pella Hy-Vee, Walmart, and Fareway through this Saturday, and alsoaccepting online donations and those through Venmo @PellaKofC12334 , and checks written to the Knights of Columbus and mailed to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or dropped off during the telethon at the Pella Opera House.

—