March 12th – Impacts of the 2023-24 Small Grants in Our Community
We’re thrilled to share the impact of the Rotary Club’s 2023-24 Small Grants program on Wednesday! This past Rotary year, we’ve awarded a total of $20,000 to seven deserving local organizations, each dedicated to making a positive difference in our community.
These grants will support a wide range of vital programs and services, addressing needs from food security to arts enrichment. We’re proud to partner with these organizations and contribute to their important work.
We will be hearing from the following organizations:
- Center for Hope and Safety ($4,000), Ashley Carson
- Marion Polk Food Share ($3,500), Ava Ryan
- Salem Free Clinic ($3,000), Trina Fowler
- The Music Project ($2,650), Sandy Wiscarson
- Theater 33 ($1,000), Tom Nabhan
Additional grants were given to Salem Harvest ($1,850) and NW Hub ($4,000). Unfortunately time does not allow us to hear from them as well.
We invite you to learn more about these incredible organizations and the impact of your support. A reminder, small grant applications are open until March 26th for the 2024-2025 year!
Thank you for being a part of making our community stronger!
Program Chair – Beth Rhoades
Meeting Location: Cedar Hall, Salem Alliance Main Building
Addressing Hunger in Our Community
March is Hunger Awareness Month on our club program calendar, providing us with an opportunity to reflect on the critical issue of food insecurity in our community and the role we can play in addressing it.
Hunger remains a persistent challenge in Salem and Marion County. Recent data shows that nearly 12% of residents in our county experience food insecurity, including a significant number of children and seniors. The reality is that many families in our community struggle to access nutritious and sufficient food, impacting their health, education, and overall well-being.
As Rotarians, our mission is rooted in service and making a tangible difference in the lives of those around us. This month, we focus on raising awareness, supporting local hunger relief efforts, and encouraging community engagement in sustainable solutions.
This month we’ll hear from Rotarian Rick Gaupo about the Oregon Hunger Task Force. Rick is the CEO and President of Marion Polk Food Share. Through its network of local food pantries, meal sites, and community initiatives, it ensures that thousands of families receive the nourishment they need.
Another impactful initiative, led by Rotarian Elise Bauman, is Salem Harvest, which connects volunteers with local farmers to glean surplus produce, helping to provide fresh food to those in need while reducing waste.
Hunger is a solvable issue when communities come together. This month, let us reaffirm our commitment to service above self and work toward a future where no one in Salem has to wonder where their next meal will come from.
Rotary Club of Salem
2024-2025
