Dear Supporters,
Opening in 1990 as The Sisters of Charity Outreach, now known today as St Vincent’s Open Support, we remain are committed to addressing the unmet needs of the poor and the vulnerable.
From the early foundations of their ministry, the Sisters of Charity worked with faith, courage and remarkable resilience – qualities that continue to inspire us today. Their legacy is a living torch, passed from one generation to the next.
Recently, Open Support celebrated 35 years of service at the Sisters of Charity Australia Heritage Centre. Joined by staff, volunteers, donors, Board and Advisory Committee members, and Sisters from the Congregation, we reflected on how far we have come since opening in September 1990.
In our very first annual review, Sr Helen Clarke rsc wrote: “As I reflect on the first year at Outreach, two thoughts kept coming to me – amazement and gratitude.”
Thirty-five years later, those same words still ring true. I am filled with amazement and gratitude for the people, partnerships, and purpose that have brought us here.
I am also pleased to announce the launch of our 2024-2025 Annual Impact Report, which highlights stories and outcomes from our Social Isolation and Domestic and Family Violence programs. Open Support continues to deliver high impact, quality outcomes for our clients. While we received no government funding during the year, the incredible generosity of our donors has enabled us to plan confidently for future growth. Thank you to everyone who has helped us along this journey.
From fear and isolation to empowerment, independence and connection – we are Compassion in Action.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the momentum created through our new philanthropic partnership with St Vincent’s Curran Foundation, our financial results this year have been strong. This allows us to plan with greater confidence, create new opportunities for growth, and ensure that we can meet even more need in the years ahead.
Happy 35th Anniversary, St Vincent’s Open Support.
Warm regards,
Katie Viviers
Chief Executive Officer, St Vincent’s Open Support