Our member volunteers are at the heart of St. Vincent de Paul of Los Angeles. These members are called “Vincentians,” and they are actively helping friends in need throughout Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara Counties. Our Vincentians work in groups called “Conferences of Charities,” which are based in local Catholic church parishes. However, some conferences are found in schools, universities, and community centers. Vincentians can range from adults to youth members.
While all Vincentians demonstrate excellent service to their communities, we’d like to recognize the exemplary work of the Vincentian Youth from 103 Saints Korean Catholic Center in Torrance, CA. Also known as 103 Martyrs, the members range between 7th and 11th grade. They have continually come together to give back to people in need, making a difference throughout the Los Angeles area. They have fundraised and collected food and clothing, regularly distributing enough for over 100 individuals at a time to various shelters, like the Cardinal Manning Center, and distributed to the unhoused on Skid Row.
Cooking, assembling, and distributing kits has become their regular volunteer routine. They rely on donations through their fundraising and food drive efforts. Often food kits include hamburgers, water, and chips, while other kits include dried and canned goods and hygienic items. Not to mention the numerous bags of clothing for children to adults that are also collected and distributed.
What’s the reason behind their generous and giving nature? Simply because of their big hearts. Here’s a word from a couple of Youth 103 Martyrs:
“Volunteering allows me to make a difference and help those who need it. Preparing food and packing essentials for the homeless gives me a sense of accomplishment because I know that I was able to help them in some way. I feel happy that I’m able to do good for others and give back to my community, even if it’s in a small way.” – Leighna Kim
“As I am volunteering in Youth Vincentian I realized how much people are suffering from mental and physical problems. There are a lot of people in our society that need a lot of help from us which is why I volunteer so I can help the people that are in need.” – Amy Sooin Lee
We are very proud of the Youth Vincentians for all the impactful work they do from the goodness of their hearts. They are truly an inspiration to the entire Vincentian family. May God continue to bless all at the 103 Saints Korean martyrs conference.
If you seek assistance or want to volunteer or donate, please contact your local Catholic church and ask if they have a St. Vincent de Paul Conference of Charity. If you do not find assistance at your local Catholic church parish, please call our Vincentian Services Department at 1-888-552-7872 or email vincentianservices@svdpla.org. They can put you in touch with a group in your local community.
