St Vincent de Paul

The College’s St Vincent de Paul Society has been operating on the Kinnoull campus for over 20 years. This year, students from Years 10 to 12 met weekly in Room 212 at lunchtime to discuss events, charities and fundraising to make a difference to the less fortunate. Their efforts were inspired by Fred Ozanam, who started the Society in 1833 in Paris. It was been another successful year for the College’s group, with over 22 members attending meetings at different times of the year. During 2013 the position of chair was first rotated among members without the election of a committee and this continued in 2014. Eight members had the experience of managing discussions of proposals which proved, at times, to be both competitive and stimulating. As well as practical discussions, there were also opportunities for consciousness raising. In one open forum on refugees, Tom Ponissi and Liam Bisognin spoke eloquently about the current plight of refugees after attending a seminar on the topic for young leaders. In Term 2, the Society organised the second annual ‘Sausage Fest’ at Kinnoull with 16 members helping to cook and serve. The sausage sizzle raised more than $300 in just a single lunch time. These funds were sent to the Vinnie’s ‘Assist a Student’ program, which funded the education of four children living in an impoverished area of Sri Lanka. Perhaps the most recognised initiative brought to the Society in Term 3 by Matthew Mottola was the introduction of microwaves for the canteen. These were purchased by Mr Kenealy. For a minimal donation of $2 per term, students were given access to the microwave every lunch time with all proceeds going to the Food Collection Appeal coordinated by the College Leaders. Students have been attending the Collingwood Soup Van for more than twelve years. Each Sunday night, volunteers from De La Salle and the wider community assisted by making sandwiches, rolls and soup. Students, accompanied by adult volunteers, travelled to highrise and low-rise apartments, as well as to Smith Street, handed out food and struck up conversations with the underprivileged. It is certainly an eye-opening experience and puts into perspective just how much we take for granted. Also in Term 3, a group of De La Salle students attended the inaugural Vinnie’s Winter Sleep Out at St John’s College, Dandenong. In solidarity with the homeless of the city, students ate a small meal out of cups and slept on the floors of the classrooms. The night was an incredibly insightful experience for those involved and further emphasised the discrepancies between the homeless and those with a comfortable bed. Thanks to all members of this year’s group, who brought enthusiasm and awareness to every meeting. Their dedication is greatly appreciated. A very special thanks must also be given to Mr Lawler, who attended every meeting and ensured that we

Top Row. E. Fabris, M. Mottola, L. Chai, R. Canty Middle Row: J. Doree, J. Henry Attard, E. Hirst, J. Dent, L. Torrisi, J. Loo Yong Kee Front: Mr G. Lawler, T. Ponissi, J. Halliday, L. Bisognin, J. Segal were all engaged on the task at hand. Mr Lawler has been the coordinator of the Society for a number of years, and his devotion to this cause must not go unrecognised. All students are encouraged to join the St Vincent de Paul Society. It is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate initiative through improving the lives of others. It truly is a rewarding experience. Edward Hirst Year 12