Vinnies Service Medallion Launches for High School Students

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is giving young people the opportunity to give back to their local communities with the launch of a new service-based program designed for high school students.

The Vinnies Service Medallion (VSM) is a free to join program allowing students in Years 7-12 to demonstrate strengths beyond the classroom by recognising their contributions to community service, leadership, advocacy, and fundraising initiatives through Vinnies.

The VSM provides a clear and flexible framework for students to engage in social justice while acknowledging their impact through a formal award.

Designed to complement existing service and leadership programs operating in secondary schools, the VSM is being launched across New South Wales following a successful pilot over the past 18 months.

Service opportunities available to students participating in the VSM include preparing snack packs, hampers and toiletry kits to be distributed by Vinnies services; fundraising for appeals; volunteering at Vinnies shops or services; and taking part in advocacy projects.

Over 100 students from Catholic Schools across the Sydney Metropolitan region, including Cerdon College Merrylands, St Clare’s Catholic High School, Loreto Normanhurst, Casimir Catholic College and St Joseph’s Gosford participated in the pilot.

“The Vinnies Service Medallion is a great opportunity for young people to complement what they learn in the classroom by gaining skills that can make an impact in the community right now,” said Joy Kyriacou, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Director Programs.

“By creating this new offering tailored for high school students, the Vinnies Service Medallion recognises the strengths of young people and encourages them to stay connected with Vinnies - and with helping others - throughout their lives,” said Ms Kyriacou.

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW has over 12,000 members and volunteers in communities across the state, who have supported 100,000 people this financial year.

To learn more about the Vinnies Service Medallion, visit the Vinnies site or contact [email protected].