Mission Statement
Inspired by Gospel values, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a Catholic lay organization, leads women and men to join together to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to those who are needy and suffering in the tradition of its founder, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, and patron, St. Vincent de Paul. As a reflection of the whole family of God, Members, who are known as Vincentians, are drawn 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 good will in relieving need and addressing its causes, making no distinction in those served because, in them, Vincentians see the face of Christ.
Description
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Des Moines is a non-profit charitable organization providing a unique style of personal assistance with food, clothing, rent, utilities, educational and job training and other services to people facing economic, emotional or spiritual crises.
As a private, non-profit charity, the Society relies almost exclusively on private individuals, businesses and organizations locally for support.
Everything St. Vincent de Paul does is motivated by a sense of compassion for those struggling with poverty, loneliness, illness, family problems and many other difficulties. Our Catholic faith inspires us to action, sustains our commitment, and challenges us to become more like Christ. For Vincentians, every encounter with our fellow-man is an opportunity to share a spark of the divine fire as we walk with them in their daily challenges.
