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In 1925, the needs of neighbors struggling to make ends meet galvanized a small group of Madison Catholic parishioners, and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Madison was born. A century later, the compassion, dedication, and fortitude of volunteers, supporters, and employees continue to provide help and hope to countless neighbors in need. The centennial is a year-long celebration to honor all the caring people who’ve provided help and hope, and recommit ourselves to serving in the next century.
In preparation for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Madison’s centennial year in 2025, several longtime Vincentian friends gathered for a historical roundtable and oral history discussion. The panelists discussed Vincentian values of zeal, humility, and gentleness; shared stories of blessings and challenges; and reminisced about faithful volunteers, members, and staff.
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We’ve created a historical exhibit titled “Living out Ozanam’s Vision: SVdP Madison’s First Century of Service.” The exhibit is divided into four sections: Members, Services, Stores, and Blessings & Challenges. Each section features images, news clippings and quotes from friends past and present.
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Our “Adapting to a Changing World Centennial” benefit was an amazing evening filled with faith, joy, and generosity. Many passionate community leaders, volunteers, and donors came together to show their support. Some of the highlights of the evening were the ecumenical prayer service, adaptation games during cocktail hour, behind-the-scenes video of our pharmacy, and keynote speaker John Foppe. During the program, we reflected on 100 years of helping our neighbors in need and showed how our services have adapted to meet the demands of an ever-changing world. Thank you to all who’ve made our mission possible for the last century!
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On April 23rd, 2025, we launched St. Vincent de Paul — Madison’s centennial year with a special Mass and luncheon, celebrating 100 years of service to Dane County neighbors. This meaningful date also marked the Society’s 192nd global anniversary and the 212th birthday of our founder, Blessed Frédéric Ozanam. We honored the generations of Vincentian members, employees, volunteers, shoppers, and supporters whose compassion has touched countless lives and shaped our legacy. The event featured the debut of our Centennial historical exhibit and oral histories, capturing stories of perseverance, innovation, and faith. Leaders reflected on major milestones — from the founding of our first thrift store and the creation of Port St. Vincent de Paul, to growing programs like our busy food pantry and expanding St. Vinny’s Thrift Stores across Dane County. As we look back with gratitude, we look ahead with hope. Stay tuned for more centennial celebrations throughout the year!
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AprilAire – Presenting
SSM Health – Platinum
Hausmann Group – Gold
Zimbrick Automotive – Gold
Bank of Sun Prairie – Silver
UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hospital – Silver
Advanced Building Corporation – Bronze
DeWitt Law Firm – Bronze
Findorff – Bronze
Group Health Cooperative – Bronze
Hawk’s Landing Golf Club – Bronze
Lake Ridge Bank – Bronze
Madison Gas & Electric Foundation – Bronze
National Guardian Life Insurance Company – Bronze
Park Bank – Bronze
Pellitteri Waste Systems – Print Sponsor
SVA Certified Public Accountants – Print Sponsor
Quartz – Event Sponsor
TruStage – Event Sponsor
