Leave No Neighbor Behind: Overview

Knights of Columbus are called to step into the breach and leave no neighbor behind – especially in this time of crisis.

As the coronavirus pandemic continues, our duty is to lead our families, protect our parishes, and serve our communities, remembering always that where there’s a need, there’s a Knight. Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson has challenged Knights to take this moment as an opportunity to “deepen our commitment to the very principles which define us: charity, unity and fraternity.”

Knights of Columbus Orderwide are encouraged to serve and sacrifice for those around us. Many, including in our own councils and parishes, are isolated and alone in quarantine. Food banks, blood centers, and other essential services have been depleted of their vital supplies. There are many people and places that require urgent help.

Knights are encouraged to engage in five types of service activities:

1. Support Your Brother Knights
2. Support Your Parish
3. Support Your Community
4. Feed the Hungry
5. Participate in Blood Drives

In the pages that follow, you will find additional details for each of these categories. You can use this document as a foundation for your efforts and those of your council. Where you see opportunities to do more, you are encouraged to do so, always mindful of guidelines and suggested procedures from national and local health experts. Abide by social distancing, self-quarantine, and shelter-in-place orders, where applicable. Do not put yourself or others at risk of infection. For more information on safety measures while participating in program activities, refer to the “Guidance on Safety” section of this Guidebook.

Above all else, remember your duty as a Knight of Columbus. When crisis strikes, we respond with care, compassion and charity. It is time for all of us to answer the call – and leave no neighbor behind.

As you and your council take specific action to support your parish and community, please let the Supreme Council know. We may want to highlight your efforts. Submit your stories to fraternalmission@kofc.org.

Guidance on Safety

While engaging in activities as part of the Leave No Neighbor Behind program, participants are encouraged to always be mindful of guidelines and suggested procedures from national and local health experts. Abide by social distancing, self-quarantine and shelter-in-place orders, where applicable. Do not put yourself or others at risk of infection.

For your sake, that of your family, and the entire community, you need to consider your own safety first. Leave your home only when necessary. Those who are at higher risk or who live with people at higher risk (such as people over 60 years old, who are ill, who have pre-existing conditions, etc.) should avoid going out in public for any reason. Additionally, participants should strive to limit direct contact with other members, as much as possible (i.e. Do not offer to drive a member to the store but, rather, complete the errand on his behalf).

Safe environment rules for the protection of children should be strictly followed.

Download Leave No Neighbor Behind Guidebook

Download the Leave No Neighbor Behind Poster