Volunteer at Saint Vincent de Paul Thrift Store
The Society of St Vincent de Paul relies on volunteers to fulfill the mission each year. The life of our organization, volunteers enable us to provide our wide range of services and programs, and serve thousands of needy families each year.
Our various projects offer fun and unique ways for individuals and groups of all kinds to become a volunteer and contribute their time, talent, and resources. Thank you for your desire to aid us in our mission to empower people—regardless of their background, ethnicity, or faith—to achieve self-sufficiency, by offering financial, material, educational, and spiritual support and by collaborating with others to develop and deliver programs and services that help those in need.
Why Volunteer with Us?
- Make an Impact: Your time and effort directly contribute to helping those in need within our community
- Gain Experience: Volunteering at our Thrift Store provides valuable experience in retail operations, customer service, and teamwork
- Meet New People: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for making a positive difference in the world
Explore our volunteer programs and find the perfect way to make a difference in your community.
Get Involved →Wood Shop
Build furniture for families Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings
Time Commitment: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, 9am-12pm (once a week, weekly or every other week)
Location: SVdP Woodshop, 1600 S Calhoun Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46806
What Happens at the Wood Shop:
• Cut, assemble, and finish wood furniture (beds, tables, dressers)</li>
• Sand and stain completed pieces</li>
• Maintain tools and keep workspace organized</li>
• Work alongside a team of skilled volunteers</li>
Skills Needed:
• Basic tool knowledge helpful but not required
• Willing to learn woodworking techniques
• Able to lift 50+ lbs
• Comfortable with power tools (training provided)
Impact: Last year, our woodshop built 100+ pieces of furniture for families who had none. Your Wednesday morning = a child sleeping in a real bed.
Thrift Store
Sort donations, organize displays, 2–4 hours per week
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week, flexible scheduling (Mon-Sat)
Location: SVdP Thrift Store 1600 South Calhoun Street, Downtown Fort Wayne
What Happens at the Thrift Store:
• Sort donated clothing, furniture, and household items
• Organize displays and keep store tidy
• Price items appropriately
Skills Needed:
• No experience necessary
• Able to stand for extended periods
• Comfortable lifting up to 30 lbs
Impact: Our thrift store provides affordable clothing and household items to people in poverty—and generates revenue to fund our poverty relief programs. Your sorting = someone\\\'s dignity + funding for rent assistance.
Care Van
Transport neighbors to medical appointments, about two weeks out of every three months
Time Commitment: One 4 day week every other month (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday)
Location: Pick-ups throughout Fort Wayne, destinations vary (medical appointments, food pantries)
What Happens on the Care Van:
• Drive SVdP van to transport neighbors to medical appointments and/or food pantries
• Help passengers safely in/out of vehicle
• Provide friendly conversation and support during rides
• Track mileage and report accurately
Skills Needed:
• Valid driver\'s license with clean driving record
• Comfortable driving a 15-passenger van (training provided)
• Patient, friendly, and reliable
• Background check required
Impact: Many people in poverty can\'t access healthcare or food because they lack transportation. You\'re not just driving—you\'re opening doors to health, nutrition, and dignity.
Carpenters Sons
Build wheelchair ramps and make minor home repairs, every Tuesday
Time Commitment: Flexible—projects scheduled based on need, typically one Saturday per month
Location: Various homes throughout Fort Wayne area
What Happens at the Carpenters Sons:
• Build wheelchair ramps for people with mobility issues
• Do minor home repairs (steps, railings, doors)
• Work with a team on carpentry projects
• Ensure safety and accessibility for vulnerable neighbors
Skills Needed:
• Carpentry or construction experience preferred
• Own basic tools (we provide materials)
• Able to work outdoors in various weather
• Valid driver\\\'s license
Impact: Your ramp means someone can leave their house. Your repair means a senior can stay in their home safely. This is life-changing work.