Noticed, Named, Known

This year, we’re exploring what it means to (really) belong

Hey 6-12th graders!

We are a collective of middle school and high school youth in Salem-Keizer
who are creating a space where we get to be our fullest selves together.

We’re straight and queer.
We’re neurotypical and neurodivergent.
We struggle with our mental health sometimes.
We’re agnostic, Christian, and honestly, not always sure some days.
We’re learning to love people like Jesus did. It’s beautiful. And hard.
We participate in our local church and we love gathering with new friends from lots of churches.

We’re trying to figure out who we are.
What is life about? What kind of person do I want to be? What matters most?

We know that we can’t do life alone
and it helps to have friends & adults we trust around us.

If this is a space you’re looking for, you’re welcome anytime. Truly.

We’re in this together.

Welcome to the Salem Youth Collective!

Register Here!

Named, Noticed, Known:
A Framework for Belonging

Sunday, October 12, 2025 | 12:30-2:30 pm

How do we cultivate spaces where our teenagers can experience belonging? Based on national research on teens and mental health, this workshop will present a simple framework that can inform how adults can accompany young people, in our ministries, in the community, and in our lives. This workshop is hosted by Rev. Chris Dela Cruz, with Youth Solidarity Movement (YSM), an initiative of Together Lab, and a partner with Salem Youth Collective. YSM cultivates community for teenagers and the adults who support them so that young people can experience belonging in Oregon. This is designed for parents, community members, church staff and pastors, congregants, and anyone who loves young people!

All rising 6-12th graders are invited to participate in pizza lunch with adult attendees, then they'll engage in connecting activities while adults work with Chris. We'll meet at St. Paul's Episcopal Church on 1444 Liberty St SE in Salem. 12:30-2:30 pm.

RSVP for lunch & workshop