Give thanks to the LORD for he is good. His love endures forever. (Psalm 136)
At Salem Leadership Foundation we believe that Salem/Keizer will become the healthiest community in all of Oregon, truly a city of Shalom. Because we believe this we engage with people of faith and people of goodwill to transform the community. We build connections in neighborhoods and capacity in nonprofits. We partner with churches, schools and nonprofits for the flourishing of everyone in our community. We host 7 monthly gatherings to connect and empower over 300 grassroots leaders. I am so grateful to be part of this work.
As we move toward Thanksgiving, I wanted to share a few things I am grateful for in my first year as the Executive Director of Salem Leadership Foundation.
Churches: I have the privilege of spending a significant amount of time with pastors in local churches who are determined to lead and love the people entrusted to their care. I am inspired by their commitment to be both present to the pressing needs of their community and to articulate a vision of hope where all things will be made new. These ministers of the gospel have blessed me with both encouragement and friendship.
Schools: I am very encouraged by how our district leaders, principals, educators, and staff are rising to the challenges present in our community with a steadfast commitment to care and excellence. I have also enjoyed building connections and strengthening partnerships with our friends at Willamette University, Corban University, and Chemeketa Community College. I am grateful that my children are a part of this incredible education village!
Nonprofits: Our nonprofit community is strong and well-connected. I am particularly grateful for organizations like Mano a Mano Family Services, Church at the Park, Mid-Valley Young Life, Marion/Polk Food Share, and the Family YMCA of Marion & Polk Counties. Each of these organizations, like so many others in our community, remain committed to their unique mission and are helping Salem/Keizer become the healthiest community in all of Oregon.
As you reflect on the people in your life and the places you find yourself: What are you grateful for?
For the Shalom of the City,
Kyle Dickinson
Executive Director
Year End Matching Challenge Campaign
In the month of October, I had the privilege of connecting with several faithful and generous supporters of the work and ministry of the Salem Leadership Foundation. I love having these meetings because I get to learn about people’s passion for our community and where they feel called to bless others. Being a part of someone’s journey of generosity always feels like sacred ground. I am so grateful for this.
I am excited to report that this group of people have committed $60,000 as a matching challenge to encourage you to support SLF’s work to make Salem/Keizer the healthiest community in all of Oregon. With your support we can meet our Year End Matching Challenge Campaign goal of $120,000. All donations will support SLF’s work of building connections in neighborhoods and capacity in nonprofits! You can donate online using the QR code below, or you can mail in your donation with the form below and the enclosed envelope.
We can also receive gifts of appreciated stock. For many of you, this is great time to consider this method of giving. Please email SLF’s Director of Business Operations, Laurie Case (laurie@salemlf.org) and we can facilitate this transaction.
Thank you for supporting SLF!