2024 North Central Regional Meeting

"Encounter Christ"

June 20 - 22, 2024 

Holiday Inn Sioux Falls - City Centre

100 West 8th Street

Sioux Falls, SD 57104

(605) 339-2000

Directions

The Holiday Inn Sioux Falls - City Centre is located approximately 3 miles from the Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD). Complimentary Shuttle service is available from 6:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. 

Overnight accommodations are available at the Holiday Inn Sioux Falls City Centre at the rate of $139 per night, plus tax. Please contact them directly at the number above to make your reservation. Mention:  Society of SVdP Sioux Falls when booking your room.

Due to overwhelming interest in the North Central Regional Meeting, the Holiday Inn is sold out for the night of the 19th. Additional accommodations available for June 19, 2024  at the same rate $139, have been blocked at:

Hotel on Phillips
100 N. Phillips Ave.
Sioux Falls, SD 57104 

Hotel Link:  Hotel on Phillips

Any unused rooms will be returned to the hotel inventory on May 20, 2024 -- book your room today!!

REGISTRATION

  • (includes all group meals)
    Late Registration after May 20th, Registration Fee is $250.00

  • Check Option Below

AGENDA

To attend programs, workshops or presentations: Select "Attend This Session," Once you click on "Attend This Session," this box will change to "Cancel." This provides you with the option to Cancel this session if you decide you do not want to attend. Continue until you've selected all the workshops/presentations you'd like to participate in, scroll to the bottom and select Submit.

Printable Agenda: 2024 NCR Regional Meeting - Printable Agenda 3.0.pdf

Thursday, June 20, 2024

8:00AM - 4:00 PMRegistration Table Open

Pick Up Materials

Thursday, June 20, 2024

  • 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Registration Open

    8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Registration Open

    (Pick up materials)

  • 6:45 AM - 7:15 AM Morning Mass

    6:45 AM - 7:15 AM Morning Mass

    Fr. DeWayne Kayser presiding

  • 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM Spiritual Advisor Training - Part I

    7:30 AM - 11:30 AM Spiritual Advisor Training - Part I

    Open to any Vincentian wanting to learn more about the role of Spiritual Advisor.

    Brad Blauvelt, David Harper, Jeanne Harper, Gayle Westfahl, and Tim Williams

    Breakfast pastries will be served

  • 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM Council/Conference Best Practice Fair

    8:30 AM - 10:30 AM Council/Conference Best Practice Fair

  • 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM Disaster Services Presentation

    9:00 AM - 10:15 AM Disaster Services Presentation

    What is a VOAD? What is a COAD? Why Should I Care?

    Join me as we discuss the roles of these collaborative groups in disaster. From blizzards in SD, tornados in WI and IL, floods everywhere, as well as fires. Learn how to build resilience in your community. Learn how we use the Scout motto of “Be prepared.” I promise, “This will not be a downer.”

    Joe Butkovich, Chair Disaster Recovery, North Central Region

  • 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM Council/Conference Meeting

    9:00 AM - 10:15 AM Council/Conference Meeting

    (Opportunity for Councils or Conferences to meet, please select this option if you would like to set up a time for your group to meet)

  • 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Opening Retreat: Encountering Christ

    10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Opening Retreat: Encountering Christ

    Jim will speak on Encountering Christ in the poor while striving to incarnate the love of the Father by imitating the life of Jesus Christ. Jim is a storyteller. He will share stories of how, through God’s providence, Christ makes himself manifest to those who serve those in need. Serving in this way is both one of the most profound privileges and greatest challenges in the life of the Catholic Christian. This mission of mercy is needed as never before, as in the past 25 years we have lost 60 million people from our churches. Without
    missionaries of mercy willing to preach love outside the walls of our churches, too few people will encounter the living God in their time of greatest need.

    Jim Kinyon, Executive Director, Catholic Social Services

  • 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Lunch

    12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Lunch

  • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM "If I Could But Touch His Garment..."

    1:00 PM - 2:00 PM "If I Could But Touch His Garment..."

    Through this time of retreat we will invite the Holy Spirit to deepen us Vincentians in the way of the gospel, such that together we might embody the way in our lives, our homes and in our streets. Together we will listen for the Word through prayer and scripture stories, through shared questions, learnings and shared journey experiences. In preparation for retreat we pray, “Lord, that we may see…”

    Sr. Lynn Marie Welbig, PBVM, Ph.D., JCL

  • 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Back to Vincentian Basics

    2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Back to Vincentian Basics

    Faith, friendship and service. Simplicity, humility, selflessness, gentleness, and zeal. These are more than words. They define our very being as Vincentians. Home visits define our core work to encounter neighbors in need. Our Rule and Manual put these pieces together for us. Learn how to stay rooted in our values while living out the Vincentian charism in the world.

    Julie Bennett & Sue McMahon

  • 3:45 PM - 5:00 PM North Central Region Vincentian Meeting

    3:45 PM - 5:00 PM North Central Region Vincentian Meeting

    (All are welcome) An opportunity to join other Vincentians from our six state region to get an overview of the regional activities and “Ask Your RVP” session.

    Susan Wiland, National Vice President, North Central Region

  • 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM Host City Event

    6:00 PM - 8:30 PM Host City Event

    Barbeque Cookout and comedy entertainment by MJ Matheson, Comedian

    The evening will start with a BBQ Cookout dinner including burgers and chicken followed by comedy entertainment provided by MJ Matheson. MJ Matheson is the globe-trotting comedian and improviser who was voted 2nd Funniest Person in the Twin Cities (2018) and has fought to maintain his 2nd Funniest status to this day. An active member of the Bearded Company and ComedySportz, MJ is quick on his feet and ready for anything. Whether watching his comedy special or visiting his resident "Easy Speak" showcase at Volsteads Emporium, his unique blend of observational humor and relatable anecdotes make him a comedic force to be reckoned
    with.

Friday, June 21, 2024

  • 6:45 AM - 7:15 AM Rosary & Morning Prayer

    6:45 AM - 7:15 AM Rosary & Morning Prayer

  • 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM Registation Open

    7:00 AM - 4:00 PM Registation Open

    (Pick up materials)

  • 7:15 AM - 8:00 AM Continental Breakfast

    7:15 AM - 8:00 AM Continental Breakfast

  • 8:15 AM - 9:15 AM Vision SVdP Every Voice Matters

    8:15 AM - 9:15 AM Vision SVdP Every Voice Matters

    View Archbishop Andrew Bellisario's video presentation.

    “What is VisionSVdP?” It is a conversation. Synodal (from the Greek for Journeying Together) conversation about the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. What’s good about it? What’s not so good about it? What are we doing right? What might we be doing better? What are we doing that we don’t need to be? What aren’t we doing that we should be doing? What’s enriching your spiritual life as a Vincentian? What’s stressing your spiritual life as a Vincentian?

    John Berry, National Council President

  • 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM Spiritual Advisor Training - Part II

    9:30 AM - 12:00 PM Spiritual Advisor Training - Part II

    Open to any Vincentian wanting to learn more about the role of Spiritual Advisor.

    Brad Blauvelt, David Harper, Jeanne Harper, Gayle Westfahl, and Tim Williams

  • Leadership is necessary in every organization at every level in order to achieve the mission and goals of the organization. While some leadership traits may be inherent in individuals to varying degrees, leadership skills can be learned and grown by each of us. We will examine the concept of Servant Leadership, its importance for the Society, and how we can develop the skills of Servant Leadership in ourselves and others.

    Julie Bennett, CEO & Executive Director, District Council of Madison

  • The 8 most important things to run a successful thrift store will be covered: 1. Accountability, 2. POS program Secure Retail or Thrift Works, 3. Proper production goals/payroll, 4. Rotation Schedule (No more than 5 weeks), 5. Pull old stale product and replace with fresh stock daily, 6. Make sure you have enough credential product, 7. Correct merchandise layout based on POS sales data, 8. Marketing (Data Candy/Facebook/Google).

    Jeff Beamguard, National Store Support Director

  • This workshop will review the importance of resolutions to approve the existence of Special Works, their charters, and the bylaws that govern their operations. Without resolutions, charters, and bylaws, who owns and operates a special work, how it functions and the purpose for its existence only reside in the memories of the people who established the work. This has led to conflicts within many of SVdP’s Councils and Conferences. It has also led to some special works being treated as if they are independent of the Society’s normal structure. No special work can exist independent of the Council or Conference that established it.

    Mike Syslo, Vice President, Archdiocese of Chicago

  • Designed to illuminate the pivotal role of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) conferences and councils in extending compassionate care to migrants. This workshop is tailored for volunteers, members, and anyone interested in migrant support, focusing on the challenges encountered by migrants and refugees during their perilous journey and upon their arrival.

    Pam Matambanadzo, Vice President, International Territory, Americas 1

  • We will explore the what’s and how’s of growing your Conferences. What is important and what works? What to look for in struggling Conferences? How do we get others excited about being Vincentians?

    Christine McCarthy, President, District Council of Green Bay

  • Special works are a unique aspect of the ministry of St. Vincent de Paul. They provide opportunities to expand your ministry, but they also present challenges. This workshop focuses on the “Why” effort at the thrift stores of the Waukesha County Council in Wisconsin. This program focused on helping store associates learn and live out the mission of St. Vincent de Paul in their work lives at our local thrift stores.

    Julia Martinez & Julie McIntyre

  • We are called to grow in holiness, discerning God’s will for us through the people and events we encounter in our lives. How can we better recognize these moments that move us along our Vincentian Pathway?

    Tim Williams, National Director of Formation

  • The Making Choices Simulation is a tool that helps participants rethink the challenges that millions of low-income individuals must face each and every day. The simulation is a profoundly moving experience. It moves people to think about the harsh realities of poverty and to talk about how communities can address the problem. Most importantly, it moves people to activate change.

    Wayne Bugg, Bill Gosse & Ed Koerner

Friday, June 21, 2024

  • 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Lunch

    12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Lunch

  • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Workshop Block 3: Vision SVdP Listening Sessions

    1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Workshop Block 3: Vision SVdP Listening Sessions

    Attendees will be divided into 5 groups identified by the icon on your nametag.

  • In this modern work environment, hiring and retention has been an obstacle for many organizations. With employee views of their employers and expectations of the work environment shifting, we need to create new strategies and update outdated approaches to a people-centric culture. Learn how to implement new strategies to improve the employee experience, boost retention, employee engagement and productivity.

    Brooke Trick, Senior Director of Retail Operations, District Council of Madison

  • Vincentians work to build a more just world through personal relationships with and service to people in need. Providing financial assistance is one form of that service. But first, you need the finances to share. Learn how to create and implement a plan to raise ongoing resources for your conference and people in need.

    Amy Overby, Executive Director, District Council of Madison

  • We will cover key issues that must be considered when merging conferences, particularly as a result of parish mergers when a diocese restructures - - how to respond to the challenges posed, how to take advantage of new opportunities for membership, service, and funding growth, and what must be addressed to retain your recognition by the National & International Society.

    Tom Pelger, National Vice President, Regional & Council Support

Transportation will be available for Mass, please check below whether you will be needing transportation.

  • 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Mass at Cathedral of St. Joseph

    4:00 PM - 5:00 PM Mass at Cathedral of St. Joseph

    Bishop Donald Kettler presiding

    Transportation departs from the Holiday Inn at 3:30 PM

  • 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Reception hosted by the SVdP National Foundation Board & the Ozanam Legacy Society

    6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Reception hosted by the SVdP National Foundation Board & the Ozanam Legacy Society

  • 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Dinner Banquet

    7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Dinner Banquet

Saturday, June 22, 2024

  • 7:15 AM - 7:45 AM Mass

    7:15 AM - 7:45 AM Mass

    Fr. DeWayne Kayser presiding

  • 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM Registration Table Open

    7:30 AM - 9:00 AM Registration Table Open

  • 8:00 AM - 8:45 AM Breakfast

    8:00 AM - 8:45 AM Breakfast

  • The faster secularism grows, the greater the misinformation flows throughout the faithful that are questioning their faith. Taking a leap of faith is a very foreign concept for many people. People today want everything to be spelled out completely before they believe in God. How do we become a disciple in this environment?

    Fr. DeWayne Kayser

  • This workshop focuses on promoting your conference within your parish and local community emphasizing two related items: recruitment and connection. Learn techniques for better utilizing the opportunities your conference has to communicate to your parish and the broader community. I will be using the example of St. Leonard Conference in Muskego, Wisconsin, a 2023 Ozanam medallion winner in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

    Julie McIntyre & Rob Shelledy

  • Social media is a powerful tool. You can use it to grow your Conference, market your store events, attract new volunteers and engage with your donors. But what kind of content makes a “good” post? What kind of content is engaging? After attending this session you’ll understand the basics of Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and get an idea of what types of posts people most engage with. Plus - you’ll see examples of successful social media campaigns and walk away with simple resources that will help YOU succeed online.

    Katherine Higgins & Ashley Berken

  • The idea of being culturally sensitive and respectful isn’t a new concept. Through the lens of the Bible, we'll explore how Jesus engaged with cultural minorities and marginalized people. Our goal is to equip attendees with the tools to better serve fellow Vincentians and neighbors in need, making them feel welcomed, valued, and loved.

    Wayne Bugg, Idalia Nieves-Reyes & Myron Hubbard

  • 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM Workshop Block 6: Going Beyond Charity

    10:30 AM - 11:45 AM Workshop Block 6: Going Beyond Charity

    We will begin by exploring the foundational principles of Catholic Social Teaching, which are incorporated into the positions advocated by the National Voice for the Poor Committee. As Vincentians, we are all called to advocate on behalf of people in poverty who may otherwise be voiceless. We will consider some of the first advocates for others as memorialized in the Old and New Testaments. We will reflect on how advocacy fits within our Vincentian Virtues, and how our encounters with those we serve help to identify the root causes of poverty that could be appropriately addressed by Voice for the Poor. Finally, we will discuss types of advocacy and focus on Voter Voice, which is the primary vehicle through which our Vincentian advocacy efforts are exercised.

    Michael Sylvester, Voice for the Poor, North Central Region Representative

  • 12:00 PM - 12:15 PM Welcome & Opening Prayer, Bishop DeGrood

    12:00 PM - 12:15 PM Welcome & Opening Prayer, Bishop DeGrood

    Bishop Donald E. DeGrood was born in rural Faribault, Minnesota, on February 14, 1965. He attended Catholic grade school in Faribault and graduated in 1983 from Bethlehem Academy Catholic High School. He attended the University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul, Minnesota, where his discernment of a priestly vocation led him to Saint John Vianney College Seminary. Bishop DeGrood served first as parochial vicar at All Saints Church in Lakeville, Minnesota, before being assigned to serve as a formator and spiritual director at Saint John Vianney Seminary. In the summer of 2013, Bishop DeGrood was named Vicar for Clergy for the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis and at the same time, pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Saint Paul. Pope Francis appointed him as the ninth Bishop of Sioux Falls on December 12, 2019, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Bishop DeGrood was ordained as bishop and installed on February 13, 2020.

  • 12:15 PM - 1:15 PM Lunch & Raffle

    12:15 PM - 1:15 PM Lunch & Raffle

    Raffle prizes will be drawn at lunch.

  • 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Workshop Block 7: Home Visits: The Good That We Do

    1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Workshop Block 7: Home Visits: The Good That We Do

    Blessed Frédéric reminds us that our visits to the poor are “the means, not the end” of the Society. Yet the neighbor always presents specific needs to us, needs that we always hope to serve to the best of our ability. So how do we measure success on our home visits, especially on those visits where the needs are overwhelming, or our resources are stretched too thin? What is the good that we do?

    We’ll also spend time in the workshop discussing some specific home visit scenarios, and sharing our experiences with each other.

    Tim Williams & Michael Sylvester

3:00 PM              Meeting Ends

DINING

On-Site: Holiday Inn - Grill 100 Menu.pdf - Open for Breakfast (6:30AM - 11:00AM).

Nearby Restaurants: Falls Landing Restaurant, Minervas Restaurant - Sioux Falls, Crawfords, JL Beers, Blarney Stone Irish Pub, MacKenzie River Pizza, Grill & Pub, CRAVE American Kitchen & Sushi, R Wine Bar & Kitchen

Workshop Speaker/Presenter Bios

To View Workshop Presenter Bios,
2024 SVdP NCR Regional - Speaker Bios.pdf

"South Dakota is known for its diverse culture and cuisine that is influenced by native tribes and European immigrants. Take South Dakota home with you as a winner of one of our beautiful raffle baskets." 

Raffle baskets will be drawn at lunch on Saturday. 

Check back after April 20th, to purchase your raffle tickets!

$0.00
$0.00
$0.00

(Once you click Submit, you will receive a confirmation for your registration.  If you do not see a confirmation in your email, please check your SPAM folder)

Billing Information

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Discover

This page is secured with 256 bit encryption

RegFox Event Registration Software
Event Registration Software by RegFox