About Townsville Vinnies Youth Crew

For youth, by youth!

The Vinnies Youth Crew (Young Adult Conference) is a group of 16 - 30 year olds who meet fortnightly within Townsville.  The VYC focuses their attention on social justice issues affecting young people and children.  There are plenty of projects to become involved in if you seriously want to take action and make a difference in the lives of others.

Buddies Days

In 2008 the Vinnies Youth Crew committed to holding a Buddies Day every month, normally on the third Sunday.  Buddies Days are a great opportunity for disadvantaged children aged 7 - 12 years (little buddies) within Townsville/Thuringowa to spend time out of the house, having a lot of fun!  Fully supervised by VYC members (big buddies), everyone participates in activities such as skating, bowling, going to the movies, or our end of year trip to Magnetic Island. VYC fundraises throughout the year to fund Buddies Days with assistance from St Vincent de Paul Society's Diocesan Council. Our Buddies day outings this year have been to the Museum of Tropical North Queensland (February), to Ice-skating (March), and Tenpin Bowling (April). People might be interested to know that we receive funding for Buddies Days as part of a Queensland wide sponsorship by the Brisbane Broncos.

Vinnies at JCU

A group of young adults at James Cook University, Townsville, are beginning the process of establishing a Vinnies conference. They have held a number of meetings so fay in 2008, and meet at St Raphael's College.

Mini Vinnies

Children in primary school can begin participating in the St Vincent de Paul Society through 'Mini Vinnies'. A growing number of Catholic primary schools in Townsville diocese are establishing Mini Vinnies. Children typically do such activities as visiting the elderly in aged homes, raising money for charitable works, and collecting for Christmas hampers.

High School Conferences

Young people in secondary schools, Catholic or other, can establish Vinnies conferences. There are several in the diocese already, and a number of others considering starting. There is a good quality "College Conference Starter Kit" to help you start a group.

If you are interested in learning more about the Vinnies Youth Crew, contact Jim Mackinnon on (07) 4771 4077 for more information, or email jim.mackinnon@svdpqld.org.au.

Did you know...the St Vincent de Paul Society was founded by a 20 year old uni student?