Committees

A standing National Council Committee with members appointed by the National President, the Audit Committee works with the National Council Finance team to employ an independent accounting firm to perform an annual audit of the National Council’s financial books and records, reviewing the auditor’s report and any auditor comments or concerns.

Homelessness affects nearly every community across the country. The Housing Committee helps Councils and Conferences to become familiar with current homeless prevention and diversion services of the local continuum of care system.

The Communications Committee carefully considers the ways we as a Society present ourselves. Our logo, wording, graphics, and photos work in harmony to create a nationally identifiable brand. Websites, social media, and apps are also key elements, helping Vincentians to better communicate with one another — and the broader world.

The National Committee on Multicultural/ Diversity Issues and Initiatives recognizes and appreciates the potential and power of all people. The group’s commitment to “End Poverty Through Systemic Change” focuses on removing barriers associated with discrimination of any kind through education, awareness, and compassion.

A standing National Council Committee with members appointed by the National President, the Finance Committee’s duties include working with the National Council Finance team to develop the National Council Budget and performing a monthly review of the financial reports to monitor progress toward the budget and assure financial support is adequate.

Thrift Stores are one of the Society’s most visible works. For many neighbors in need, they are a place to purchase goods, but a place where compassion and friendship, are freely given to one and all. The Thrift Store Committee is dedicated to helping paid and unpaid personnel to develop and maintain successful thrift stores.

Our spiritual life is the foundation of all work done by the Society. The Formation Committee creates resources and reflections for use at the Conference and Council level, to provide ongoing opportunities for Vincentians to deepen their spirituality and ministry while growing in holiness together.

Voice of the Poor is the Society’s advocacy arm. With members representing every region and demographic, VOP raises awareness of the issues critical to those living in need, so that communities and elected representatives can develop strategies around the most effective means to reduce or eliminate poverty.

Foundation Board members raise and invest funds solely for the purpose of financially supporting the National Council’s mission and endowing it for the future. The Foundation Board is working to establish a base of long-term, invested funding and growing the Society’s long-term capacity as a stable, valued charity.

Youth involvement in the Society of St. Vincent de Paul provides an avenue for children and teens to learn how to address others’ physical and spiritual needs, serving God and their neighbors in need. We hope to see them grow in friendship and fellowship, and to become compassionate leaders who have mercy for those we serve.

Servant leadership in the Society is focused on building and sustaining a community of individuals formed through our Mission and Rule. The Governance Committee brings together and the Society’s foundational documents and helps interpret them for the Vincentians who live our charism and faith.

Young adults ages 18 – 40 come together for spiritual growth and works of service and social justice, changing the world through faith, service, and friendship. Both college and post-collegiate communities across the country are involved, building community through service to our neighbors in need.

Growing and revitalizing Conferences and Councils are key to the Society’s expansion and ultimate success. The G&R committee provides ideas and insight into how Councils can create new Conferences — and how existing Conferences can create a welcoming culture for new members.