The mission of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is “a network of friends, inspired by Gospel values, growing in holiness and building a more just world through personal relationships with and service to people in need.”
Members of the Society (known as “Vincentians”) are men and women who strive to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to neighbors in need. We represent all ages, every race, and all incomes, and share our blessings of time, talent, and treasure with those who need help and hope.
The National Council of the United States is part of an international society of friends united by a spirit of poverty, humility, and sharing. We are nourished by prayer and reflection, mutually supportive gatherings, and adherence to a basic Rule.
In service to local Councils and Conferences, the National Council provides Vincentians throughout the United States with resources, spiritual formation, and best practices as they assist millions of neighbors in need.
Since its founding in Paris in 1833, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul has grown to 800,000 members in over 150 countries with 1,500,000 volunteers. We understand that service to a neighbor in need is an encounter with our Lord Jesus Christ, and are aware that poverty, suffering, and loneliness are present for millions in our communities.
Our work is unique in that Vincentians offer tangible assistance to those in need on a person-to-person basis — however they need it most. Vincentians in the United States serve more than 4 million people annually.
No work of charity is foreign to the Society. To quote our patron, St. Vincent de Paul: “Charity is infinitely inventive.”
