The Young Vincentian Schools Programme offers a framework for young people to get involved with needy and disadvantaged groups, providing invaluable formative experiences on the road to adulthood

The World is in need; but we can make it a better place. We can make a difference. These are the words of a song by Jaci Velasquez; it is also the message of the St Vincent de Paul Society’s (SVP) Young Vincentian schools programme. Engaging and developing the altruism and enthusiasm of young people is a challenge for many primary and secondary school  teachers and chaplains.

By using an age-appropriate, well-structured, fully resourced plan of spiritual and practical charitable activities, children and teenagers learn about and put into practice Catholic Social Teaching. The programme consists of Mini Vinnies for children aged 7 to 11, Youth SVP for 11 to 14 year olds, and the B-Attitude for 14 to 18 year olds.

The young people are invited to reflect on how they can help with some aspects of need in their local environment, something practical they can do to put their faith in action. For example, at St Joseph’s Primary School, Penarth in Wales, Mini Vinnies were recently commissioned to be part of the chaplaincy team. They use liturgical resources with weekly readings provided in the programme and help to plan and lead the school assemblies. Older young Vincentians can have roles of greater responsibility in their school chaplaincy teams.