A Safe, Vibrant Hub for Youth & Community in East Salem

A new coffee shop, cafe, and youth center built to uplift and empower our neighborhood.

We’re building something big…

A vibrant space in the most under-resourced part of our city that combines great coffee, community events, and safe, enriching programs for youth. The REC: Commons is designed to be both a destination and a refuge, with modern gathering spaces, study rooms, and a community-first approach.

Our Vision for the space

The back having a large conference room for all sorts of meetings that people in Salem are having.

The middle having a large seating area for lunches and games to happen.

The front having comfy, cozy, coffee shop styled seating – perfect for your morning coffee or afternoon coffee dates!

Why Here? Why Now?

Our city’s youth deserve safety, opportunity, and belonging.

• 68% of all crime happens within 3 miles of McKay High School.
• This neighborhood needs more than policing — it needs possibility. That’s why we’re building The REC: Commons here.

What will be in there?

• Youth Programs (Youth Gaming, Piano, Guitar, Dance, Tutoring)
• Large meeting space (25–50 people capacity)
• Small conference room (5–8 people)
• Study room/podcast studio
• Café lounge seating area
• Casual seating with couches, chairs & tables
• Commercial kitchen & coffee bar
• Public restrooms
• Borrowable electronics