Our Mission
"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."
In the tradition of its founder, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, and patron, St. Vincent de Paul, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul is a Catholic lay organization inspired by Gospel values. The Society leads women and men to join together to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to those who are needy and suffering. As a reflection of the whole family of God, members, known as Vincentians, come together from every ethnic and cultural background, age group, and economic level. Vincentians are united in an international society of charity by their spirit of poverty, humility, and sharing, which is nourished by prayer and reflection, mutually supportive gatherings, and adherence to a basic Rule. Organized locally, Vincentians witness God’s love by embracing all works of charity and justice. The Society collaborates with other people of goodwill in relieving need and addressing its systemic causes, making no distinction in those served because, in them, Vincentians see the face of Christ. For more information on the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, please visit the national website.
As Vincentians, we are called to participate personally and directly by visiting the homes of the poor to identify immediate and long-term needs, including emergency assistance for rent, food, utilities, clothing, medicines, and transportation. As Jesus Christ sent forth his disciples in pairs, we conduct each home visit with two Vincentians intent on giving our hearts and friendship to those we serve and see Christ’s presence in them. In the United States, we are the only organization that assists the poor face-to-face in a home visit focused on providing hope, financial assistance, and thoughtful prayer to address their needs. Our assistance is provided without discrimination of race, creed, or religion. We serve them joyfully, listen attentively and respectfully to their concerns and needs, and strive to help them feel or recover a sense of dignity. Vincentians are not social workers but rather serve as neighbors and friends seeking to understand the troubles of those we serve and to form trusting relationships that can hopefully lead to systemic changes in their lives. Additionally, our conference Vincentians partner with other community support groups such as County Human Services, Community Outreach, Interlakes Community Action, South Dakota Cares, Lutheran Social Services, and others to coordinate and maximize the support provided to our neighbors in need.
