AIC
The Vincentian legacy becomes a global organisation
Since 1971, the work begun by Saint Vincent de' Paoli in 1617 has taken on a new form in the AIC – International Association of Charities, which coordinates and supports Vincentian voluntary work globally. The decision to retain the name “Charités” in the new name highlights the deep connection with its origins. Today, the AIC is active in 52 countries, with over 250,000 volunteers – mostly women – engaged every day in the fight against poverty and in providing practical help to the most vulnerable people. The association has the task of uniting, training and guiding local groups, offering common tools to make action in the field more effective.
International presence and voice of volunteers around the world
AIC is not only a support network, but also a recognised interlocutor in the main social and ecclesial contexts. It is an active member of the European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN) and the Conference of International Catholic Organisations (OIC) and has consultative status with UNESCO and the Council of Europe. Thanks to this presence, the AIC brings the voice of volunteers to places where global policies are discussed, denouncing situations of injustice and proposing concrete actions of solidarity and human promotion.
