BEDFORD — The Knights of Columbus Council 1166 in Bedford will hold its 49th Annual Tootsie Roll Drive on Friday, Sept. 11, and Saturday, Sept. 12, raising funds to support local residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Since launching its inaugural drive in 1978, the local council has raised more than $500,000 to aid community members with special needs. The drive directly assists organizations and educational institutions by providing funding outside their regular operating budgets for specialized tools, equipment, and programs.
Where Funds Are Distributed
Proceeds from this year’s campaign will benefit several community organizations and educational programs across Lawrence County, including:
- Lawrence County Arc: Funding helps support job training initiatives and employment placement opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities.
- Lawrence County Special Olympics: Donations support sports training, athletic competitions, and recreational opportunities for local athletes with intellectual disabilities.
- Local Special Education Programs: Monies will fund specialized instructional materials and life-skills classroom resources across multiple local school systems, including North Lawrence Community Schools, Mitchell Community Schools, St. Vincent de Paul School, Lawrence County Independent Schools, and the Springville Community Academy.
Over nearly five decades, funds generated through the annual campaign have financed essential infrastructure and learning aids for students from preschool through 12th grade. Past contributions have purchased life-skills classroom furnishings, accessible playground equipment, classroom instructional supplies, and protective outdoor awnings to shelter students with mobility challenges while transitioning between school buildings and buses.
How to Donate
Knights of Columbus members and community volunteers will accept donations in exchange for Tootsie Roll candies at four local business locations on Sept. 11 and 12:
- Walmart
- Rural King
- Price Less IGA
- Johnny Junxions
Community members who wish to contribute directly may mail donations to:
Knights of Columbus Tootsie Roll Drive
2202 M Street
Bedford, IN 47421
For additional information on the annual fundraiser, contact Drive Chairman Greg Stanley through Knights of Columbus Council 1166.
