Shawnna Costanzo, who grew up in Cheyenne, Wyoming, has been an active participant in all things Vincentian for the past 12 years. She initially got involved with the St. Vincent de Paul, (SVdP), Conference at St. Bonaventure in Concord – without knowledge of what St. Vincent de Paul was, or what was to come.
Shawnna is an active member of St. Bonaventure Church, serves as the Spiritual Advisor for the SVdP Conference, is a volunteer Nurse for the RotaCare Pittsburg Free Medical Clinic at St. Vincent de Paul, is an SVdP Training Organizer, (also known as a Formator), is a member of the SVdP Workforce Development Program, and Home Visitor.
“I just really believe in it. I believe in everything that SVdP does. I’m just really glad that I took the chance to become a Vincentian – I’ve learned so much, between home visits, being able to view others in a more open-minded way, learning about not only the diversity of poverty but learning about people in general, “said Shawnna. When asked how she manages to keep up with so many roles, “I also take the time to take care of myself- I enjoy doing water polo, and have stayed involved with a group of women I went on a retreat with meditative journaling.”
Shawnna credits her upbringing and parents for instilling in her the value of giving back to the community and the needy. “Being a Vincentian just came very naturally to me. I was meant to be a nurse and a Vincentian.”
Steve Krank an active Vincentian and Coordinator for Vincentian Support Services of SVdP of Contra Costa County says, “Shawnna brings enthusiasm and passion to her Conference, and to the other Conferences she helps. She’s a great teacher. She’s also very compassionate about building relationships with the members of her Conference and the neighbors they serve. She has built strong relationships with some of our neighbors.” Steve adds, “Shawnna’s experience is a great example of how being a Vincentian helps people grow spiritually. I think Shawnna appreciates the spiritual fellowship of being a Vincentian as much as she loves to help people in need.”