“I have been given much so I want to give back. SVDP helps me accomplish this. I feel SVDP helps people feel valued and gives hope through personal encounter visits to people in need which I will be a part of.”

“It was time to give back, pay forward, in some way acknowledge with more than a monetary donation that a debt was owed. When I was young the local Conference assisted my family.
My perspective of ‘neighbors’ and those in need has definitely developed since I joined SVdP in May 2024. Stories of how those in need must live are now real. I have seen and heard the heart-breaking situations neighbors are living – often for the lack of what most of us consider a ‘little’ money.”

“To be part of a ministry where people are dedicated to serving the poor with real time needs and experience how a difference is made in their lives. Also to be able to evangelize with actual deeds of charity supported by my Catholic faith."

"When I heard Deacon John speak about the St. Vincent de Paul Society, I immediately became interested in becoming more closely involved with helping people less fortunate in some way from the bottom of my heart."

"SVDP felt like an extension of my vocation as a nurse to care for the “sick” and poor needing help. The Holy Spirit gave me a nudge to see the Face of Jesus in the people we serve."

"We wanted to help people. We were also personally invited to be part of the family of SVDP."

"While living in Atlanta, I really wanted to help my fellow neighbors. However, I found it very difficult finding such a local charitable organization. It's easy to make donations but does nothing for the soul. Being a Vincentian allows me to be closer to my neighbors while helping them during a financial crisis. I love that we can assist them before they can possibly become homeless. I also love being part of SVdP and working with such a wonderful group of people."

"Faith without works is dead. I love to serve the poor."

"The Holy Spirit moved me to raise my hand and follow Jesus “2X2” at the welcome meeting of SVDP. Working for SVDP Health System and the Daughters of Charity over 20 years prior, brought the call straight to my heart. The SVDP mission is unique from any other charitable organization. It places prayer and a personal sharing of God’s love with His most vulnerable at the center of one’s heart. A Vincentian heart is a life changing experience. "

"SVDP gave me the ability to practice what our Catholic faith asks of us. It gives me the special opportunity to assist those in need and share God’s love."

"Service to God through helping our SVDP conference meet the needs of the poor and most vulnerable."

"I can still remember sitting in that back-row pew in my home parish in Georgia over 25 years ago hearing about all of the ministries (more than 40!) that needed help. All were important, and all were doing God’s work, but the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) was the one that kept calling to me…or maybe it was Jesus doing the calling. I joined but because of life moments I had to leave and it broke my heart. However, I promised God I would return.
Last year, just four months after I retired—in a whole different state and an area where I was told there were no SVDP Conferences—He made a way! It took 25 years, but I know I’m where I need to be, working in a ministry that’s making a difference in people’s lives every day alongside fellow Vincentians who truly embody our organization’s core values of spirituality, friendship, and service. Thank you, Jesus! "

"My father was a Vincentian in Rochester; NY and I was drawn closer to SVDP by its history and his example. I wanted to be a part of a vocation that involved more than writing a check. I enjoy being a part of SVDP’s direct outreach to our neighbors, “face to face” where they reside and feel safe."

"If we are not practically helping those in real need, we are not living the Gospel. I am grateful for the opportunities this work gives me to be a better disciple."

"I love accepting neighbors where they are in life thru the mission of SVDP. Talking and praying with people helps me see the face of Christ. The SVDP guidelines helps focus our mission of service."

"I became a Vincentian to know Jesus Christ better as I encounter Him on home visits. And, to make some very special friends in the conference."

"My reason for becoming a Vincentian can only truly be stated in a song. “Here I am Lord” captures the essence of the Vincentian Heart shared with you on our opening page."