The Louise de Marillac Vincentian Foundation, a non-profit institution with a deep humanitarian and Christian vocation, has been a fundamental pillar in the assistance and integral promotion of the most vulnerable people, especially the elderly poor, in Colombia. Its history, which dates back to the first half of the 20th century, is imbued with the Vincentian charism, reflecting the values and teachings of Saint Vincent de Paul and Saint Louise de Marillac. This article explores the rich history of the Foundation, its evolution, and the principles that guide its mission of serving the most needy.

Origins and Foundation

The Louise de Marillac Vincentian Foundation has its roots in France, where the “work of the venerable Louise de Marillac” joined the family of the Ladies of Charity on November 29, 1909, at the Parish of Saint Nicholas of Chardonnet in Paris. This movement, approved by the Archbishop of Paris, Monsignor Amette, and promoted by Fr. Villette, C.M., marked the beginning of a mission that would eventually expand internationally, reaching Colombia in 1933.

In Colombia, the institution officially began on January 2, 1933, at the Provincial House of the Daughters of Charity in Cali, under the name “Association of Luisas de Marillac.” Founded by Sister María Luisa Courbin and Father Juan Luis Bozec, both French Vincentians, the initial association had 23 members and was dedicated to serving the poor, especially the elderly, providing them with help in areas such as food, health, and spiritual support.

Evolution and Expansion

Over time, the Association of Luisa de Marillac grew, both in the number of members and its influence within the community. In 1941, the association obtained legal recognition, allowing it to establish a more formal and extended presence in Colombia. As the organization grew, so did its reach, establishing homes for the elderly in various cities across the country, including Bogotá, Ibagué, and Popayán.

In 1971, the first National Congress was held in Cali, marking the beginning of a new era of coordination and nationwide expansion. During the III National Congress in 1978, held in Pereira, the association adopted the name “Vincentian Youth Volunteer (VOLJUVI),” reflecting its desire to involve young people in its mission. However, in 1992, the group in Cali decided to reclaim its original identity, changing its name to “Vincentian Volunteer Luisa de Marillac.”

Transformation into a Foundation

The 1990s brought a new phase of development for the organization. In 1996, at the request of the Presidency of the Republic, the association was transformed into the “Louise de Marillac Vincentian Foundation,” allowing it to establish contracts with the government and expand its capacity to improve the living conditions of elderly people in poverty.

The Foundation has played a crucial role in the comprehensive care of the elderly, promoting not only their physical well-being but also their spiritual and social development. With a humanistic perspective and Christian criteria, the Foundation seeks to ensure that those under its care fully and freely enjoy their human rights, with autonomy and active participation in a home-like environment.

Principles and Values

The commitment of the Louise de Marillac Vincentian Foundation to the elderly poor is based on a series of principles and values that guide its work. These include love for God and neighbor, humility, simplicity, and charity, following the example of Saint Vincent de Paul and Saint Louise de Marillac. The Foundation has an ecclesial character, reflected in its sense of belonging to the Catholic Church and its respect for the ecclesiastical hierarchy.

The lay vocation of the Foundation’s members is manifested in their commitment to missionary discipleship, assuming a leadership role in the Church, both in the family and in society. This commitment translates into concrete actions to transform the living conditions of the poor and promote their dignity as children of God.

Mission and Objectives

The central mission of the Louise de Marillac Vincentian Foundation is to provide shelter and promote the comprehensive rehabilitation of the elderly poor, ensuring that they live in an environment that allows them to enjoy a dignified and fulfilling life. This goal is achieved through an interdisciplinary approach that combines material care with evangelization and spiritual support.

The specific goals of the Foundation include:

• Sanctification of its members: Promoting identification with Jesus Christ through the testimony of love for Him in the person of the poor.
• Service and evangelization of the elderly: Responding to their most basic needs and promoting their integral development.
• Social change: Contributing to the transformation of unjust social structures for the integral development of the poor.

Action Criteria

The Foundation operates under a series of criteria that ensure the effectiveness and coherence of its mission:

• Integral formation: Ensuring that its members receive comprehensive formation in human, technical, spiritual, community, and apostolic aspects.
• Authenticity and joy: Fostering true friendship among its members and an attitude of joy reflected in their families and apostolic work.
• Life testimony: Setting an example of Christian life to inspire others to join the Foundation’s mission.
• Community collaboration: Involving the community and local authorities in the care of the elderly.
• Linking with other organizations: Coordinating efforts with organizations that share its interest in improving the lives of the elderly.
• Promotion of geronto-geriatric education: Disseminating knowledge about elderly care, starting with families.

Spirituality and Apostolate

The spirituality of the Foundation is deeply rooted in the gospel and Vincentian tradition. Members nourish their relationship with Christ through daily prayer, reading the Scriptures, participating in Sunday Mass, and regularly receiving the sacraments. Additionally, they cultivate a special devotion to the Virgin Mary, under the title of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, and to the saints of the Vincentian Family.

The apostolic service of the Foundation focuses on the comprehensive care of the elderly, ensuring that they feel part of the community and enjoy a good quality of life. This service is not limited to material needs but includes evangelization as an essential component, helping the elderly to realize their identity as children of God and to free themselves from the injustices that oppress them.

Impact and Projections

Throughout its more than 90-year history, the Louise de Marillac Vincentian Foundation has left an indelible mark on the lives of thousands of elderly people in Colombia. Its impact has extended beyond the homes it manages, influencing Colombian society by promoting a culture of respect and care for the elderly.

The Foundation has proven to be a dynamic organization, capable of adapting to the changing needs of society without losing sight of its original mission. Its commitment to promoting human rights and the dignity of the poor continues to be a beacon of hope for those in vulnerable situations.

Conclusion

The Louise de Marillac Vincentian Foundation is a living example of how faith and social commitment can come together to generate a positive impact on the lives of the most needy. Through its dedication to the elderly poor, the Foundation not only provides them with the necessary care to live with dignity but also offers them hope and spiritual support, allowing them to find meaning and purpose in their lives.

This legacy of service and love for neighbor remains alive in each of the Foundation’s members, who, inspired by the Vincentian charism, continue to work tirelessly to transform society and build a more just and supportive world. The history of the Louise de Marillac Vincentian Foundation is proof that, with faith and determination, it is possible to change the world, one act of love at a time.

Contact:

• Address: Calle 16 Oeste # 3-66, Santiago de Cali, Colombia
  
• Telephone: +57 2 8933667
• Email: info@fundaluisamarillac.org
• Web: https://www.fundaluisamarillac.org/

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