Young Vinnies

Young Vinnies is made up of young people who share their time, care for humanity and energy to make a difference in the lives of disadvantaged people in our community. Vinnies Youth is the name for the inspiring young people who volunteer for the St Vincent de Paul Society. Vinnies was founded by a 20 year old student named Frederic Ozanam. It was established by youth in the spirit of youth and this compassionate outlook, enthusiasm and vision continues today across the Ballarat Diocese and throughout Australia.

Young Vinnies at School

At St Brigid’s, students in Year 7 – 11 are involved in two forms of support: fundraising and advocacy. The students meet twice each Term to pray, brainstorm ideas, support each other and formalise fundraising activities. Throughout the year the Young Vinnies students hold barbecues, cake stalls, organise the Gifting Mass Food Collection and organise the annual Sleepout to support homelessness in the community.  Over the past few years the students have raised hundreds of dollars for the Assist-A-Student program which provides educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Third World countries.