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St. Vincent de Paul Hosts Inaugural Celebration of Service

2026 Celebration of Service
2026 Celebration of Service

St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge welcomed community leaders, partners, and supporters for an inspiring evening dedicated to honoring service, strengthening community connections, and advancing the organization’s mission during its inaugural Celebration of Service at the Tracy Center Ballroom, April 9.


The event marked the beginning of a new annual tradition designed to recognize individuals whose leadership and compassion have made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.


The evening also served as a cornerstone fundraising initiative and proved to be a tremendous success for the organization. Through the remarkable generosity of attendees, sponsors, and donors, the event achieved a record-breaking level of support, underscoring the community’s deep commitment to St. Vincent de Paul's mission.


Harry Anderson Quartet plays during the inaugural Celebration of Service, April 9.
Harry Anderson Quartet plays during the inaugural Celebration of Service, April 9.

“It was a joy to see so many longtime and new friends at our first-ever Celebration of Service,” Sunnie Johnson-Lain, CEO and President of SVDPBR. “This night was a beautiful opportunity to share gratitude for SVDP's circle of support while celebrating and honoring SVDP's critical and life-changing mission."


This outpouring of support will have a lasting and measurable impact, ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of vital programs. Proceeds from the event will directly strengthen critical services, including emergency shelter for those experiencing homelessness, daily meal services for individuals in need, thrift store operations that fund outreach efforts, and direct assistance programs that help families facing financial hardship regain stability.


2026 Celebration of Service honoree Andy Adler
2026 Celebration of Service honoree Andy Adler

A highlight of the evening was the recognition of longtime community leader Andy Adler, who was honored for more than 30 years of dedicated service to St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge.


“Andy’s service reflects the Vincentian spirit at its best – humble, generous, faithful, and grounded in love,” said Johnson-Lain. “He is exactly the right person to honor during this inaugural Celebration of Service.  We are so grateful for all Andy has given of himself to make SVDP better.”

 

A highly respected banking executive with over three decades of professional experience, Adler has played an instrumental role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction.

Attendees sign in during the inaugural Celebration of Service at the Tracy Center Ballroom, April 9.
Attendees sign in during the inaugural Celebration of Service at the Tracy Center Ballroom, April 9.

At its core, St. Vincent de Paul of Baton Rouge is a ministry rooted in compassion and action, committed to serving neighbors in need with dignity, respect, and love.

Through a comprehensive and integrated network of services, including emergency shelters, hot meals, thrift stores, a charitable pharmacy, and individualized assistance, the organization not only meets immediate needs but also creates meaningful pathways toward long-term stability, self-sufficiency, and hope.



2026 Celebration of Service
2026 Celebration of Service

 
 
 

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