NATIONAL STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE REPORT FOR 2009-20010

1.    Training

Strategic issue: There is an overall lack of coordinated Vincentian training and training programs at all levels of the Society related to various topics and roles within the Society.

Progress report: This has resulted in the establishment of  an education/ formation committee whose mandate is to establish the needed materials for this project.  This committee is already hard at work to bring this about.  This continues to be a work in progress.  The first Educational module, “Orientation and renewal” has been developed.  Train-the-trainer manual and other modules are being developed. 

2.    Public Relations/Media

Strategic issue: There is an overall lack of official Public Relations/Media materials for all levels of Councils and Conferences to use in order to promote the Society.

Progress report  - The new logo is already present on our stationery, prayer cards and pins. New pamphlets have been developed for the National office and Twinning.  Ellen will be developing a public relations and media strategy. 

3.    Administration

Strategic issues: there is an overall lack of timely communication and administrative processes among all levels of The Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Canada.  

Progress report - With the hiring of a new office administrative assistant in the Ottawa office, there are now two administrative assistants for National. . This can only help to improve administrative efficiency.  Effective Communication among all levels still continues to be a work in progress.

4.    Advocacy

Strategic Issue There are no defined mechanisms/guidelines for advocacy by and on behalf of the SSVP. 

Progress report .   The committee has developed National Advocacy guidelines.  This document will be used by all conference in Canada.  National help a workshop for regions across Canada to set guidelines as Conferences and Councils putt in place their own Advocacy Committees.

Statistical data strategic planning reports.

Committees for Training; Public relations/Media; Administration; and Advocacy are established.  The identified issues are now either in the process of completion and completed.   The National Strategic Committee will  look at other issues and directions to work on.  One issue that often arises is the need for good communication withing the Society.  Another  need is to reaffirm  a greater Vincentian spirituality throughout the society.  These are definitely area we can all work on. 

A very heart felt thank you to the members of this committee, who continue their faithful service :     

• Tony L'Heureux, Western Region
• Jean-Claude Bienvenue, Quebec      
• Jim Paddon, Ontario
• Fr. Joseph Quinn, CSB - Spiritual Advisor

Yours in Christ

Carol Horne, 2nd Vice President
Chair National Strategic Planning Committee