VLM follows a 400 year tradition begun by St. Vincent dePaul who, in a gentle yet effective way worked among the most neglected people of seventeenth century France. He also trained missionaries according to his principles of keeping in mind always, the respect and dignity of the poor. These missionaries were sent to Ireland and Scotland to work with the most vulnerable communities, Being Vincentian Lay Missionaries, involves people committing to a model of volunteering which requires an openness and willingness to work alongside the Daughters of Charity. From their faith-based perspective The Daughters of Charity respond to the needs of underprivileged regardless of race, creed or religion. Our hope is that the volunteers will play an active or supportive role in the spiritual life of the local community in which they are accommodated.