Salem, OR – The Salem Rotary Club has announced its decision to award $50,000 in grants to several local nonprofits aimed at providing resources for at-risk youth and low-income families. The funding is designed to enhance community support through a range of initiatives focused on uplifting vulnerable populations in the Salem area.
Among the recipients of the grant funds is Punx With Purpose, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth through mentorship and community projects. Additionally, local organizations such as Helping Hands and the Riverfront Carousel will benefit from the Rotary’s contributions, ensuring they can continue their important work in the community. The Riverfront Carousel, for instance, will receive funds to install a new kiosk, enhancing the visitor experience and supporting its educational mission.
A standout initiative funded by the grants includes a program providing free bicycles to low-income youth, offering them not only mobility but also opportunities for recreation and improved health. This effort aims to promote an active lifestyle while addressing barriers to transportation faced by many families in the area.
This recent funding follows the club’s longstanding tradition of supporting local organizations and students. In June 2024, the Rotary Club awarded $40,000 in scholarships to 14 Salem seniors, in addition to $10,000 in Career and Technical Education (CTE) awards for senior students at Salem High School. These initiatives highlight the club’s commitment to education and community enrichment.
The Rotary’s ongoing dedication to service continues to make a significant impact on the lives of those in need across Salem, and this latest round of funding marks another important chapter in their mission to foster positive change within the community.
