The Rule states that Vincentians endeavour to help the poor to help themselves whenever possible, and to be aware that they can forge and change their own destinies and that of their local community. Our Members, staff and volunteers constantly remind us of the importance of our unique Vincentian Way, and the Society would not be able to what we do for others without the service of so many across the Tasmanian community. Quite simply, we thank all who give their time to the Society. Fundraising efforts by our staff, Members, volunteers and friends of the Society have also been enormous again this year, even though the cost-of-living crisis has impacted fundraising totals. Our major fundraising initiatives, the CEO Sleepout, Christmas Appeal, School Essentials Appeal and Winter Appeal have engaged businesses, schools and community organisations, not to mention the wider public too. These campaigns not only raise vital support and funds, but remind our communities of the everyday realities many Tasmanians face - cold nights, empty pantries, uncertain shelter. We have also benefitted from countless acts of generosity - large and small - that have made a difference to many. From a cash donation to purchase a piano at Bethlehem House so that our men can have music in their lives, to a similar donation to purchase a pool table at Amelie House – these generous gifts have a lasting impact that goes beyond the physical item, they build connections and confidence. The donation of furniture from hotels to provide for our accommodation services and to sell within our shops also creates an enduring impact for so many. There have been countless fundraisers and food drives among community groups, businesses, sporting clubs, schools and generous individuals - all of these make
a big difference, not just to our operations, but in impacting the lives of those we are here to serve. The Select Foundation is a key benefactor for Amelie House, a new accommodation service for women in experiencing homelessness in Hobart. Through its gift of $1m, the Society was able to purchase the accommodation pods which have been located on this site since 2000. In addition, the Select Foundation has also assisted with the refurbishment costs associated with transforming the building which had previously provided accommodation to men for over half a century, working with Housing All Australians to ensure that the former Bethlehem House site could be re-opened for a further three years to welcome women. At a governance level, at the last Annual General Meeting held on 30 November 2024, two special resolutions were put to the State Council members. The first was to resolve to transfer from an Incorporated Association to a Company Limited by Guarantee. The second resolution was for State Council members to accept the Constitution for this new company, St Vincent de Paul Society (Tasmania) Ltd. Both were adopted. Importantly, there will always be a majority of State Council members on the new company’s Board as this ensures that the views of Vincentian Members are not only heard, but given greatest influence in the work of the Board when supporting State Council. In addition, the new company structure also allows for appointment of Independent Directors, bringing new skills and experiences to the Board to ensure that corporate knowledge and our work in the Vincentian Way is both retained and expanded.
St Vincent de Paul Society Tasmania’s 125th anniversary celebrations (L-R) Southern Regional President Louise Wilson, CEO Heather Kent, National President Mark Gaetani, Archbishop Julian Porteous, State President Corey McGrath and Northwest Regional President Karen Maynard.
PAGE - 7
ST VINCENT DE PAUL (TAS) LTD | ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT 2024-25
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator