Our Lady of the Grove Council Number 13448 is associated with Saint Mary Parish in Buffalo Grove, Illinois. The council began through the efforts of Former District Deputy Thaddeus Steward. The Supreme Council of the Knights of Columbus granted our council its charter on January 20, 2004. The charter class consisted of 35 members. The council is lead by a Grand Knight who is elected for a one-year term. Currently, the council’s leader is Grand Knight Michael Bryscan. The balance of the officers can be seen in the Officers link.

In its first year of existence, the council has made great strides in following the purposes and aims of the Knights of Columbus Order. It has dedicated itself to the charitable programs such as the Mentally Handicapped Fund Raiser (also known as the “Tootsie Roll Drive”). This drive is held statewide in September and in the council’s first participation, surpassed its quota. The funds help support care and training of citizens of all ages that are mentally handicapped through the 90% Apportioned for this purpose. The remaining 10% is utilized to build and maintain a self-help residence program for qualified clients through no interest loans. There are more than 150 such homes in Illinois.

Another program that is actively supported is the Right to Life Movement. Funds are raised by participating in Buffalo Grove Days weekend celebration where the profits from operating a refreshment booth are dedicated to support local organizations toward the choice of this option for pregnant women and other activities that promote Right to Life.

Since charity is one of the principle aims of the Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of the Grove Council is active in other charitable works as the needs arise.