International Mission Statement

The Salvation Army, an international Movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

The History behind the Red Shield

The history of The Salvation Army in Salem began in 1865 in the darkest area of East London by William Booth. William Booth’s vision was to serve the people who were rejected by society due to their social status; those who were under-served and neglected. In his heart he felt that everyone should experience the love of God without discrimination. He believed that in order for him to help broken spirits, he first needed to meet their physical and emotional needs.  15 busy years later, The Salvation Army crossed the Atlantic to New York City to establish its services in the US. In 1886 the work of the Army made its way to the West Coast to Portland and then moved southward to Salem, Oregon.

The Dream of Joan Kroc

Fast forward to the year 2004: McDonald’s heiress Joan Kroc, moved by compassion, was experiencing the same feeling that William Booth had when he founded The Salvation Army. She wanted individuals from different social status, under-served children, and families to be served without discrimination. As a friend of “The Army”, Joan was compelled to give $1.5 billion to The Salvation Army, with the purpose to build and operate community centers across the country that will bear the Kroc family name. Our community took the opportunity and submitted a proposal to Salvation Army headquarters to build a Kroc Center in Salem, OR. After 20 months and three competitive phases, Salem was awarded $71 million of the Ray and Joan Kroc gift to build and operate a Kroc Center. In addition the generous hearts from Salem, and nearby communities, united to raise $10 million. On September 29, 2009 The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center opened its doors – the DREAM is a reality.

For nearly 125 years, The Salvation Army has been active developing its ministry of worship and service throughout Marion-Polk Counties. The Salvation Army meets the needs of the whole person – physical, emotional, and spiritual – without discrimination.

Kroc Mission

The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center of Salem, OR embodies the very best of The Salvation Army’s service and mission impact for the 21st century. The Salvation Army is committed to producing tangible outcomes that will build character, confidence and competence in the children and families of the Mid-Willamette Valley region and throughout the State of Oregon.  Purpose:  Promoting Wellness, Encouraging Excellence, Building Character, & Inspiring Faith

The Salvation Army Kroc Center’s Mission-Driven Principles of Operation:

• The Salvation Army Kroc Center’s Mission-Driven Principles:Plan, operate, and develop in a manner consistent with the mission of The Salvation Army: to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
• Remain true to the intentions of Joan Kroc: to relieve the suffering of the poor, communicate dignity, and provide resources to those with limited opportunities to develop their skills to the full extent of their potential.
• Be a beacon of hope and an agent of change in the Mid-Willamette Valley region that will actively reach out to those who might not otherwise feel included and make the center open to everyone.
• Offer programs that will enhance the quality of life, build relationships, and help unify a diverse community, and transform youth, families and neighborhoods through education, art, recreation, and worship activities.
• Be an anchor for the community. Plan, develop, and operate in a manner that engages in true community leadership, networking, and offering support resources.