RADNESS ENSUES: A community for arts, culture, and connection
We are an all-ages community center that organically grew out of the Button Shoppe. The center focuses on music, art, peer support, and youth empowerment. Our unique space offers music and art spaces, community classes, event venues, a gift shop, a beverage shop, support groups, internships, and more – all under one roof. We provide a foundation of trauma-informed care and resources, but are not a mental health facility. Our core values revolve around building an inclusive, creative community that meets youth and families where they are, while working together to provide what our community needs.
MISSION
The mission of the collective is to serve as a vibrant and inclusive community hub, where creativity thrives, and hearts unite in a safer and sober environment. Through our diverse ventures, we empower local artists, support underserved youth and families, and provide a safe space for self-expression and healing. Our mission is to create a lasting impact, breaking the cycle of poverty, and promoting the power of creativity and human connection.
VALUES
FOSTERING COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION
ENCOURAGING CREATIVITY AND SELF-EXPRESSION
CULTIVATING SPACES OF BELONGING
SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH
EMPOWERING YOUTH AND FAMILIES
IMPACTING POSITIVE CHANGE
BUILDING AUTHENTICITY AND RESILIENCE
GIVING BACK
COMMUNITY NEEDS
The Collective acknowledges and seeks to respond to several pressing community needs within Salem, Oregon:
- Youth Poverty: Recognizing that 16.9% of individuals and 23% of children (under 18) are below the poverty level in Salem, OR, the Collective aims to provide a safe, inclusive, and low-cost space for underserved children and families. This space will enable them to gather, learn, and grow without financial barriers. Source
- Youth Homelessness: There were 1,241 students identified as experiencing homelessness in the Salem/Keizer school district last year. Source
- Limited Safe Spaces: Understanding that there is a scarcity of safe and accessible spaces for individuals and families in Salem to connect, engage, and learn without fear of exclusion, the Collective strives to create an environment that promotes inclusivity, diversity, and unity.
- Mental Health Support: Acknowledging the importance of mental health awareness and the challenges faced by individuals dealing with mental health issues, trauma, and adversity, the Collective is committed to providing therapy groups, support meetings, and resources to aid in healing and personal growth.
- Diversity and Inclusivity: Embracing diversity and recognizing the need for a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ individuals, marginalized communities, and those with special needs, the Collective aspires to foster a sense of belonging and acceptance among all its members.
To summarize, our objective is to provide a safe place for kids to grow emotionally and relationally and to provide resources for children and their families.
Do you know how Radness Ensues got started? Click below!
WHY A COMMUNITY CENTER?
We’re not the only ones who know that providing a safe space for kids in a community/recreation center is one of the best ways to benefit a community. Check out these articles: