DSW invites people to join us in service, prayer, community in the Oblate spirit.

This ministry is focused on sharing Salesian spirituality with people in our struggling community through direct personal service and the advancement of peace and justice. Volunteers do much needed practical service. The DSW experience fosters the Christian worldview of St. Francis de Sales and brings the power of gentleness, humility, and optimism to a world that can be poor, hard edged, and harsh.

Mission Statement

Sponsored by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, DeSales Service Works welcomes volunteers to join in service, prayer, and learning in our neighborhood.  Participants join our partners in ministry to encounter and assist the least of our sisters and brothers: grade school kids, adults, immigrants, addicts, homeless people, at-risk youth, and people walking the streets.

Purpose

DeSales Service Works brings people of differing backgrounds together under the banner of Christ to the benefit of both the volunteers (generally from middle class, more affluent  backgrounds) and residents of our neighborhood (generally more disadvantaged). DSW makes an impact, demonstrating the power of St. Francis’ gentle strength in a world that can be aggressive, violent, and broken.  We join the good work going on here to improve life for our struggling sisters and brothers.   Our presence and work points to the reality of God’s presence and love.   Service also impacts those who serve; as Pope Francis puts it, “When you meet the needy, your heart grows bigger.”

DSW Introduction Video

DSW Volunteer House Tour