The Volunteers of Don Bosco were founded by Blessed Philip Rinaldi, third successor of Don Bosco, along with FMA Provincial Sr. Felicina Fauda and three of the young ladies of the Sisters' oratory at Valdocco in Turin. They launched the 'Society of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in the World'. 

The girls practiced the three evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity and obedience, while living as lay persons in the world. Quickly, more joined. Later, this form of life was recognized by the Church, as Pope Pius XII wrote the letter Provida Mater Ecclesia in 1947.

The group got its present name in 1959.

Now, there are 1,500 VDB over the world. They work under cover, appearing as dedicated Catholic laywomen. For this reason, inquiries about their membership should be directed to their delegate, Fr. Mario Mich (marmich629@aol.com) or to the Province Salesian Family delegate, Fr. Carmine Vairo (cvairo@boscotech.org).