What is the Tootsie Roll Drive?

The Tootsie Roll Drive began in the 1970s when three Knights in Chicagoland set out to support individuals with intellectual disabilities. Wearing yellow vests, they offered Tootsie Rolls at busy intersections and storefronts in exchange for small donations. In just two days, they raised $30,000. The idea spread nationwide, and for over 50 years councils have continued this tradition. Today, Illinois Knights alone raise nearly $2 million annually through the drive.

How Your Donation Helps Locally

Every donation—large or small—stays local and supports nonprofits in the Fox Valley. These organizations provide housing, job opportunities, medical care, education, training, social activities, and Special Olympics funding.

2025 Beneficiaries:

• Valley Sheltered Workshop, Batavia
• Marklund, Geneva
• Association for Individual Development (AID), Aurora

How to Donate

The 2025 Drive runs September 4–7. Donate in person that weekend and receive a Tootsie Roll, or donate anytime online. We accept Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, Discover, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Knights of Columbus Council #14795 — Tootsie Roll Drive for People with Intellectual Disabilities