Young Vinnies
Since the early 1900s, young people have been involved with the work of the Society in New Zealand.
Young people are not just the future of the Society in New Zealand — they are also an important part of the present, as they always have been, continuing a long heritage of helping the poor in our community. They are dedicated to being advocates in our mission who work for social justice and want to make a difference in the world.
An interesting piece of history - the Society in New Zealand was founded by seven people, most of whom were teenagers.
The object of having a youth arm of the Society is to help young people realise that there are people in the community who are in need. More so, to make them aware that the reason Vincentians help people is not just because “they feel good doing this work,” but because of the Gospel message to “love your neighbour as yourself”.
Young Vinnies in our Primary Schools and Vinnies Youth in our High Schools engage and inspire other young people in their community and plant a seed of hope for the people they will encounter and support by their good works or living the “Gospel through Faith in Action.”
For more information and to view regular updates on what we have been doing follow us on Facebook and Instagram. And take the time to check out our history!
What we do
The Christchurch Young Vinnies (Up to year 10) and Vinnies Youth (senior secondary students and older) team has been established to assist schools, tertiary institutions and other Catholic communities in engaging young people in the spirituality and good works of the St Vincent de Paul movement. We offer support and resources for people already working with Young Vinnies and for other social justice groups in our schools and parishes.
Our Mission
To help those aged up to 35 to realise that there are people in society in need, and to encourage them to help those people. They are also encouraged to realise that the reason Vincentians help people is not because they feel good doing this work but because of the gospel message to love your neighbour as yourself.
Make a difference in your community
We are looking for young adults who have a passion to serve the community and help support the work of the Society of St Vincent de Paul.
Testimonials
Ryan, Year 8 Young Vinnie at Our Lady of Victories School
Becoming a Young Vinnie is a real privilege. I became a Young Vinnie because I want to help the poor throughout New Zealand and other countries, and the feeling when you realise you helped a person in need is unmatchable. I like the work of the Young Vinnies because I believe no one should be less fortunate than others. What I can do to keep supporting the work of the Young Vinnies is when at school when there is a can donation or another type of donation, I can contribute to it. Enter your content...
Robin, Year 8 student and Young Vinnie at Our Lady of Victories School
I became a Young Vinnie because when I was younger my brother showed events and youtube videos about the Young Vinnies and why they help. I have seen poor countries in the videos who have endured a lot of pain and suffering. I felt compassion for them and joined Young Vinnies to help them. I like how the community is very nice and supportive and during Young Vinnie meetings it is very wholesome and fun. I also put some cans of food in the Young Vinnies bucket when it's time to send food and clothes to people less fortunate than us.
Raphael, Year 7 student and Young Vinnie at Our Lady of Victories School
The work of Saint Vincent de Paul has always inspired me to strive to make a positive impact on other people's lives. Being able to reach out and serve others has been a mission that I wish to accomplish. I look up to St Vincent de Paul volunteers, because they’re always serving others and helping the poor and less fortunate, whilst also carrying out the word of God. The work of Saint Vincent de Paul Has touched and healed so many lives whose world was turned upside down. Receiving the title of a Young Vinnie has encouraged me to go and make a difference in the lives of others through donations and smiles. Being able to know that my actions can make a huge difference keeps me serving others.
Eilish, Year 7, St Patrick's
I find learning about other people around me really interesting. The Caritas videos helped me to appreciate what I have to be grateful for because we go to a well looked after school. I like how Vinnies help other people and are willing to give up their time for them. I think I can continue to help by supporting their initiatives like Winter Woollies and the Can Drive. Attending Mass also helps me to reflect on the lives of those who are struggling.
Rosie, Year 7, St Patrick's
I thought it would be fun to be a part of it. I like that the SVDP initiatives are easy to get involved in when you are still at Primary School. I feel good that I can contribute to things like the Winter Woollies and the Can Drive as these activities really help people in need.
Contact Us
Vinnies Youth and Young Adults
Development Officer: Cyrene Tionko
Email: cyrene@svdpcanterbury.nz
Phone: 021 530 707
Our Location
265 Stanmore Road
Richmond, Christchurch
New Zealand
Vinnies Youth Office Hours:
9:30am – 4:30pm: Monday to Friday
If you would like to help us in our work please 'Donate Today'.
Every donation, whether small or large, is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
