San Ramon, CA — Tyler Fung founded his Society of St. Vincent de Paul Youth Conference at his parish, St. Joan of Arc, in San Ramon, California. He is making significant contributions to his community through his leadership and commitment to his faith. Tyler embodies Vincentian friendship, spirituality, and service in all he does. His exemplary efforts have earned him a nomination for the 2024 Young Vincentian Excellence Award, highlighting his impact and dedication, even in his short time as a Vincentian.
Tyler is in pursuit of an Environmental Science degree at his local community college, but is currently a high school student. Tyler’s journey with SVdP began as a volunteer with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul District Council of Contra Costa, but his natural leadership skills soon set him on a mission to start a youth conference.
Tyler spent months planning with the adult conference at his parish, at St. Joan of Arc. A few months ago he officially started his youth conference with a group of friends. The conference aims to embody their mission statement of, “Being Christ for others, as Christ is for us.” They organize monthly service projects and strive to promote the Vincentian way among the youth in their parish. Tyler stated that, “Even if you are really busy, even if you think you have no talents, God always finds ways that you can help others. God gives everyone a gift and encourages us to use those gifts to serve others.”
Tyler’s involvement with SVdP spans a variety of programs designed to support those in need. At SVdP Lunch Rooms, Tyler helps prepare and serve meals to the hungry, ensuring that those who are struggling have access to nutritious food. His work at local thrift stores includes sorting donations, organizing items for sale, and interacting with customers, all crucial tasks that help fund SVdP’s charitable activities. In the shower program, Tyler provides essential hygiene services to the homeless, ensuring they maintain their dignity and health. Additionally, his participation in the Thanksgiving Dinner initiative, where he helps organize and serve meals to families, brings comfort and joy during the holiday season. He played a key role in organizing a poverty simulation event for faith formation. This event aimed to educate participants about the challenges faced by those living in poverty, fostering empathy and encouraging action within the community. When asked how he manages to stay grounded amidst his many commitments, Tyler replied, “I maintain focus by keeping in mind that people are counting on me and that I rely on help when things become overwhelming, as well as my prayer life.” Tyler stressed the importance of utilizing one’s unique talents to serve others. He shared how his approach had strengthened his relationships with family and neighbors. Tyler also discussed his motivations for volunteering at the food pantry and shower program, mentioning two significant experiences that left him feeling inspired and encouraged to continue his work.
Tyler shared, “One of the things that keeps bringing me back, was an experience we had while we were at the [SVdP Contra Costa’s] Shower Program.” Tyler and his friends asked one of the gentlemen who was going through a particularly rough point in his life if they could pray for him. Afterwards, he turned around and said, “Alright, now let me pray for you guys!” Tyler was shocked and touched because, “We never expected to get prayers; we thought we were giving them. It was a particularly powerful moment that keeps me coming back.”
Tyler Fung’s dedication to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and his impactful contributions have not gone unnoticed. Although he is just getting started on his journey with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, in his short time, he has already begun to lead and inspire. Tyler’s future in service and leadership looks exceptionally bright. As a young leader whose devotion to service and community has made a significant impact, his story serves as an inspiration for others to use their unique gifts to help those in need, embodying the true spirit of the Vincentian Charism.