We run several community engagement projects across Queensland; these engagements are offered cost free to families, children and young people who may be experiencing hardship or are underrepresented within the community. Through the dedication and support of staff and volunteer members our community engagement projects provide positive role models, community, friendship and connection to all who participate.
We are committed to fulfilling our mission of working to shape a more just and compassionate society through genuine connections where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. Underpinning our community engagements are our values of commitment, compassion, respect, advocacy, courage, integrity and empathy.
Volunteers members engaged with us are offered training and leadership opportunities.
Buddies Day
Offers children between 8-12 years old a fun and enjoyable day out with other children and volunteer members. Volunteer members aged 16 and over assist in planning fun and engaging activities, while also being positive role models.
Soccer Stars
Offers children between 8-11 years old access to fortnightly cost-free recreational soccer, in a relaxed, fun and non-competitive environment. Volunteer members aged 16 and over assist in planning and facilitation of activities, while also being positive role models.
Youth Mentoring & Life Skills
Offers high school aged young people connection, support and encouragement from positive role models in a fun and welcoming environment. This can happen through monthly community days, fortnightly catch ups and an annual camp. Volunteer members aged 21 or over share their time and talents to develop positive mentoring relationships.
Camps
Are an extension of our community engagements, all our camps provided free of charge to both participants and volunteer members. Various age specific camps happen throughout the year in various locations across Queensland. These camps offer children and young people currently engaged with us a weekend away learning new skills, developing new friendships and building stronger community connections in a safe, positive, fun and welcoming environment.
Ozanam Leadership Program
Offers students in years 10 and 11 from across South East Queensland the opportunity to be a part of a values and skills-based leadership development initiative of the St Vincent de Paul Society. Designed to develop and equip participants to be compassionate servant leaders within their community. This program is underpinned by the Society’s Vincentian Charism which is based on servant leadership, the Society’s values, mission, vision and call to put faith into action.