Mini Vinnies in Erskinville

The group provides a means for children to be involved in social justice issues and to help people in need within their school and local community. The St Mary’s Mini Vinnies program was initiated by Mick McIntyre who is the group’s co-ordinator.

The group originally started with 12 members but the number has now risen to 17, with more children expected to join in the coming months.

Mr McIntyre said the program was an opportunity for children to help others and to show care and compassion. “Kids have ideals and they’re thirsty to do things for other people,” he said. “They are very passionate about social justice, and they are very enthusiastic.”

An important aspect of the charity in relation to children is that they are taught to respect others, regardless of differences.

“We have absolute and utter respect for those in need [and] the core of the Society is about a hand-up not a hand-out,” said Mr McIntyre.

Despite the organisation’s Catholic affiliation, there were also non-Catholic and non-Christian members involved with the group.

Parents have also been supportive of their children’s participation in the organisation. Jacqui Liehr, whose son Eoin is Vice President of the St Mary’s Mini Vinnies, said the group exposed children to people who had different challenges in life. “They work together in a team to come up with ways of helping others,” she said. “It forces them outside their own little world, which is good.”

Mr McIntyre said the group placed an emphasis on ensuring members enjoyed each other’s company and that they were treated as members of the community.

The St Mary’s Mini Vinnies have plans to organise activities every two weeks and this may range from nursing home visits to charity collection.

One major project that members are involved in currently is the St Vincent De Paul’s Winter Appeal. There are also proposals to do “twinnings” with conferences in Southern India or East Timor.

If you would like to join Mini Vinnies or would like more information on St Mary’s Mini Vinnies, contact Mick McIntyre on 0450 442 300

Source: South Sydney Herald August 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au