SALEM, Ore.—The Mountain West Center for Community Excellence (MWCCE) is deepening its longtime support of Center 50+ by partnering with Friends of Center 50+, the nonprofit arm of the senior center, to expand programs and services for older adults across Salem-Keizer.
Mountain West Investment Corporation has pledged $2.7 million to Friends of Center 50+, distributed over three years as key benchmarks are met. The gift, inspired by strong community support for senior services—including the recent passage of the City of Salem levy—recognizes that outreach must grow alongside Oregon’s rapidly increasing senior population.
“The number of older adults now outnumbers children and youth in Oregon,” said Marilyn Daily-Blair, Director of Center 50+. “Stable funding is vital, but growth requires private partners to step in as well.”
Salem Mayor Julie Hoy praised the partnership as an example of how private support can strengthen transformative city programs without straining public budgets. “The support of private foundations, philanthropists, and nonprofits is key to building a healthier future for Salem’s aging population,” Hoy said.
The new funding will expand Center 50+’s capacity, strengthen its volunteer workforce, and create new partnerships with other senior-serving organizations. Plans include:
-
A mobile market and meal program launching in Salem neighborhoods this September
-
Expanded outreach to senior co-housing communities
-
Networking opportunities for other senior centers in Marion and Polk counties
-
Facility upgrades to the 17-year-old Portland Road location, including new equipment and furnishings
A Mountain West staff member will join the Center 50+ team during the three-year investment to help drive outreach and program development.
Both organizations say the ultimate goal is to reach more—and often underserved—seniors, avoiding duplication of services while maximizing efficiency and impact.
