We expect to be able to (1) establish a safe gathering space for the community in NE Salem; (2) improve access to the health care system and to other support systems for people in need (intentionally, to address overall health and mental health, substance use, food insecurity, housing insecurity, etc.; (3) improve connections among teens/youth to each other, and to adults.

NE Salem is one of the most culturally diverse and also challenged parts of Salem-Keizer. For example, the neighborhood elementary, middle and high school have Latino student populations of 72% or higher. Yet, this is also an area where about 65% of gun shootings in our area have occurred. There are also no non-commercial sites that are led and coordinated by members of the local community. Mano a Mano’s NE Salem Community Hub will be owned, designed and implemented by the oldest Latino and Immigrant-led community-based organization in Salem-Keizer, by people who call this and surrounding neighborhoods their home.

The Holy Cross congregation has generously offered this community site to Mano a Mano with
an in-kind contribution valued at $1.35 million. The Maps Community Foundation has generously awarded us a $50,000 grant in support of this campaign! A network of supporters, both individual and nonprofit, (anonymous for now) has pledged $110,000 to help kickstart this effort.

The NE Salem Community Hub will host programs designed, led and implemented by people from NE Salem. Partners located at this site, along with programs who will utilize the space, will help nurture and develop positive social connections, parenting education, academic support for children and teens, access to resources, after and out-of-school activities, cultural education and promotion, and community engagement opportunities.

The NE Salem Community Hub will host cafecitos (peer-led support groups) for youth and adults. Mano a Mano’s Casa Infantil education and family program is hosted here, along with other parenting and family education classes. Mobile food distribution. Traditional Health Workers will be provide health navigation and access to resources to address urgent needs and maintain strong families; mentoring, case management, leadership development and other supports will be available. Health clinics, neighborhood celebrations, and family activities will also be available.

Yes! This site is on and nearby multiple public transportation lines. It is easily accessible by private vehicle, with plenty of parking. It is located in the middle of large residential areas, making it accessible by walk, although some more sidewalks and street lights are needed in this area. It is also close to major transportation arteries, such as Lancaster Dr., Silverton Rd, Market Street and easy access to I-5.

Absolutely not! All activities and programs offered at this site will be available to any person in Salem-Keizer. Those who will benefit more directly live in the Lansing and other surrounding neighborhoods of NE Salem. Given that area’s demographics, we expect the majority to be a mix of people, largely Latinos and also others, many of low to moderate income level. All potential partners will be intentional about making sure their programs will benefit and engage folks representative of East Salem.

Founded in 1988, Mano a Mano Family Center is Oregon’s oldest Latine/x/a/o- and immigrant-led community-based organization. Rooted in Salem’s Mid-Willamette Valley, we support over 4,800 families each year through culturally specific, multilingual programs including early childhood education, youth leadership, family wellness, health navigation, economic empowerment, and community centered media through Radio Poder. For nearly four decades, we’ve served as a trusted neighbor, connector, and lifeline for immigrant and working-class families in Oregon.