Mission: In a spirit of love and compassion, the St. Vincent de Paul Society provides human services to needy individuals and families -- meeting their basic needs while inspiring hope and empowering people to reach their full potential. Founded in 1865, the society is an independent, volunteer-based charity that operates a variety of programs that open doors to better lives for those in need. Programs include the Frederick Ozanam House, a homeless outreach service and transitional housing; Beans and Bread, a meal program and learning center; Camp St. Vincent, a summer camp for inner-city children; St. Ambrose Family Outreach Center, with adult education, job training and family services; a clothing and furniture bank; emergency assistance; prison outreach; burial assistance; overseas and disaster relief; and Christmas gift distribution to needy children.

Latest accomplishment: In March 1998, the society opened the doors to the Frederick Ozanam House, a program that provides transitional housing and outreach services to people who are homeless. Also last year, the Upper Room, an educational center at the Beans and Bread facility, was opened in partnership with Loyola College.

On the horizon: Construction of a $2.1 million facility for the St. Ambrose Family Outreach Center in Park Heights is scheduled for completion in August. The new center will focus on adult education and job-training services through its Learn To Earn program and also offer a variety of services to families and children. Also this year, ground is expected to be broken for the Cottage Avenue Community, a new project that will provide transitional housing for homeless families.

About the society: Number of people assisted: 246,000 annually. Operating budget: $2,853,000.

Where and when: Headquarters at 320 Cathedral St. Office hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 410-547-5377.

Barbara H. Medcalf, president of the board of directors: "For 134 years, the society has quietly but effectively been a major resource to the poor and suffering for the basic necessities of life. As we look to the next millennium, we plan to build on our existing programs and create additional life-enriching services to enable persons to substantially improve their life situations."

Members of the board of directors

Michael F. Armetta

Sister Jane Burke

Joan M. Finucci

E. Paul Jones Sr.

Monsignor Jeremiah F. Kenney

James Kirschner

Todd R. Langenberg

Evelyn Loncar

John J. Schiavone

Stewart Smith

Connie Vaughan

Pub Date: 03/14/99