Council of the United States
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Strategic Plan for 2000-2005
Restated March 2003

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 Frederic 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.

In September of 2000, the leadership of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul throughout the United States approved a National Strategic Plan. This Plan helps the Society focus on the accomplishment of 6 key goals so that the life and work of the Society can grow and improve. Implementation of these goals is a key part of the national, regional, and local efforts of Vincentians. A brief description of the goals follows:

Goal 1. Promote greater spiritual growth at every level of the Society. The Formation and Education Work Group leads this effort, preparing materials and opportunities for education and spiritual formation.

Goal 2. Enhance the image of the Society as a visible sign of Christ. The Communications Committee is preparing radio and TV spots, new "looks" for Vincentian printed and electronic media, and a consistent message that witnesses the joy of serving others in the spirit of Vincent de Paul.

Goal 3. Encourage greater unity at every level of the Society. Several tasks relate to this goal area. The National Finance and Operations Committee and the National Youth Committee are two groups actively working on aspects of this goal area of the Plan.

Goal 4. Develop greater solidarity with and care for people who are poor. The National Twinning, Stores, Housing, Eldercare, and Voice of the Poor Committees are leading efforts to respond to the objectives of this goal area.

Goal 5. Strengthen relationships with the Church, Vincentian Family, and other organizations serving people in need. A special National Relationships Work Group has convened to help the National President, Regional Chairs, and Council Presidents build relationships nationally and locally.

Goal 6. Prepare a Comprehensive Development Program for coordinated fund raising.