Knights of Columbus Council 6964 supports local charities and schools
The Hoffman-Schaumburg Knights of Columbus Council 6964 once again puts its faith in action. From their record-setting Tootsie Roll Drive earlier this month to their continued support of local schools like St. Hubert Catholic School, the council has made an enduring impact on families across the community.
Founded in 1977 under the guidance of Father William Shields and the leadership of the late Dick AmRhein, Council 6964 began with a mission rooted in service to the Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg neighborhoods. Today, the council represents the Holy Archangels parish and serves the churches of St. Hubert and St. Matthew. Charity has always been its cornerstone, fueling efforts to support Catholic evangelization, civic causes and aid to those in need.
That spirit of giving was on full display during this year’s Tootsie Roll Drive, also known as the Intellectual Disabilities Drive, held Sept. 19-21. More than 130 volunteers fanned out to three busy intersections and seven storefronts across Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg, collecting donations for charities that support individuals with intellectual disabilities. Beneficiaries include GiGi’s Playhouse, Elite Stars, NWSRA/SLSF, The Kids Equipment Network and UpS for DownS.
“This year we’ve reached our highest fundraising total ever, and we’re not even finished yet,” said Jim Manfre, ID Drive Chair. Donations are still being accepted at TootsieRollDrive.com. The drive also offers a special “Tootsie Rolls for the Troops” program, where donors can purchase sleeves of candy that the local VFW sends to active-duty military personnel. Proceeds continue to benefit the council’s supported charities, creating what members call “a win-win for all.”
Beyond charitable drives, the council has long championed Catholic education, particularly at St. Hubert Catholic School in Hoffman Estates. Founded in 1963, St. Hubert’s has graduated more than 6,500 students and currently serves 185 children from a richly diverse range of backgrounds, about 24% of whom require some financial assistance. Grounded in faith, the school has also consistently performed well academically, with its students outperforming Archdiocesan, state and national averages in reading and math on the iReady standardized tests.
Principal Nickisch notes that their top priority is to grow enrollment beyond 200 students, a benchmark that would strengthen tuition funding and reduce reliance on extensive fundraising. To reach this goal, the school has launched a strong presence on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram while also building connections with local businesses and nearby public schools, especially through its Religious Education program.
“The Knights’ support has been invaluable to us,” a school representative said. “Not only do they model what it means to live a life of service, but their efforts help ensure our students continue to thrive academically and spiritually.”
As Council 6964 continues its mission of faith-driven service, its dual legacy of charitable giving and support for Catholic education remains a beacon in Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg. Whether it’s through handing out Tootsie Rolls on a busy corner, sending candy to troops overseas, or helping a local school reach new heights, the Knights of Columbus Council 6964 embodies its founding principle: charity.