Our History
The Ladies of Charity trace their origins to 1617 in France, when St. Vincent de Paul, a parish priest, delivered a sermon identifying a poor, sick family in desperate need. The response from the women of the parish was immediate and overwhelming. Recognizing their compassion and dedication, St. Vincent organized them into the first Confraternity of Charity, later known as the Ladies of Charity. Their mission was clear: to serve the corporal and spiritual needs of the sick and the poor.
From these humble beginnings, the Ladies of Charity grew throughout France and expanded across the world, making it the oldest Catholic laywomen’s organization dedicated to serving those in need.
The Ladies of Charity in Oakland County
In 1965, a suburban Detroit priest encouraged the founding of a Ladies of Charity group, embracing the same mission: “To serve rather than be served, in humility, simplicity, and charity.” A dedicated group of thirty women formed the Ladies of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul - Oakland County Association.
The Oakland County chapter got right to work. A member’s basement became the first Clothes Closet and Food Pantry and 60 years later, the 100% volunteer run organization still thrives. Our community’s needs are many, and the Ladies of Charity make noticeable impact each year. Those 30 women in 1965 declared, “our hands may be small, but their work mighty,” a spirit that lives on in each of us today.
Over the years, as needs have grown, so have we. Today, our membership has expanded to well over 300 women, and our outreach programs have multiplied to support the community in countless ways—always staying true to our founding mission of faith, service, and love.
Our Mission
The mission of the Ladies of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul is ‘to serve, rather than be served, in humility, simplicity and charity.’ Ladies of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul provides each of us with an opportunity to serve Christ in a way that makes a tangible and real difference in the lives of those in need in our surrounding community.
Executive Board
Joan Grohar, Co-President
Barbara Balow, Co-President
Mia Materka, Vice President, President-Elect
Maureen Huldin, Treasurer
Deb Schmid, Recording Secretary
Meg Noble, Corresponding Secretary
Supporting Our Mission
To fund our many charitable projects, we organize engaging fundraising events that not only provide financial support but also foster joy, fellowship, and spiritual enrichment among our members. Some of these events include:
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Luncheons with Inspiring Speakers
Thought-provoking gatherings featuring speakers who uplift and motivate.
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Annual Wine & Roses Gathering
A cherished social event hosted at a member’s home, bringing friends together in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
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Activities & Special Events
Most recently, a moving concert brought our community together in faith and celebration.
These events are more than just fundraisers—they are an opportunity to connect, grow, and support each other on our journeys through life.
Our Partners
Matchan Nutrition
The mission of the Matchan Nutrition Center is to serve hot, well balanced meals to our neighbors in need and to provide other life changing assistance that lead to self-sufficiency locally in Oakland County. LOC participates in a Turkey Drive every Thanksgiving for the center. https://www.matchannutritioncenter.org/
Mary's Mantle
Mary’s Mantle is a Catholic residential program in metro Detroit for homeless expectant women. We promote the dignity of life by providing a safe, faith-based environment that supports their transition into motherhood. Our care includes spiritual, emotional, physical, educational, and vocational support, along with extended aftercare. The waiting list averages 5 to 15 women. https://marysmantle.net
Mary's Children
Mary’s Children is a non-profit, serving individuals with brain injuries and developmental disabilities. We provide academic, recreational, and social activities in a Christ-centered environment. Our structured Day Program supports adults beyond intensive rehabilitation, offering supervised, self-directed activities to improve independence and quality of life in the community. https://www.maryschildrenfamilycenter.org