Report of Assessment of St Vincent de Paul Retail Outlets

St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies) has a long and successful record of providing support to individuals and communities in greatest need of assistance. It does this through the delivery of a myriad of programs and services provided under a principle of offering a “hand up” in a way that respects the aspirations and dignity of the recipients of their services and program.

As a charitable organisation, Vinnies relies heavily on donations and program funding for the operation of its services, many of which are run by volunteer staff. Vinnies has a responsibility to ensure that the funding received through its various fundraising programs is spent in a cost efficient manner and in accordance with the organisation’s vision and mission statements.

As with other organisations within the not-for profit sector, Vinnies is working within an ever-changing social and economic landscape which impacts on the viability and sustainability of the types of goods, services and programs offered by the organisation. There are increasing financial pressures experienced by the retail sector; the charity retail sector is not immune to these pressures with increasing costs associated with maintaining a vibrant staff and volunteer base, rates and rent and transport/freight, amongst other costs (Parsons, 2002).

This project addresses one of the key goals of the organisation which is to enhance efficiency and service delivery through greater internal and external engagement.