History

  • 1953 – UGM of Salem is founded by a group of Christian businessmen, beginning the mission of meeting the basic needs of the homeless and needy in Salem, Oregon. UGM begins providing nourishing meals, safe shelter and life changing programs that help men, women and children experience lasting transformations as they learn to follow Christ. George Simonka was the first Executive Director and served for 37 years.
  • 1958 – A building is acquired, which over the years will be expanded and remodeled and is the present day location for the men’s ministry.
  • 1968 – A facility is acquired to serve women and children – the first of its kind on the west coast.
  • 1989 – Upon George’s retirement, Tom Zobel becomes the second Executive Director.
  • 1993 – The Mission Store expands with a new location.
  • 2002 – Services to women and children are expanded with a new facility in nearby Keizer, Oregon (the current Simonka Place).
  • 2008 – Michael Rideout becomes the third President/CEO. Michael brings extensive experience in addiction recovery, after-care and transitional services.
  • 2008 – The Dental Clinic opens and begins providing free dental care to Mission clients.
  • 2009 – Grear Street Transitional Housing is established to provide safe, affordable housing for men as they leave the Men’s Mission and transition back into society.
  • Looking to the Future – Our vision is to serve with excellence in our current programs, as we also expand and improve the ministry’s addiction recovery and transitional services. Our goal is to improve the success of men and women becoming productive participating members of our community, as their lives are transformed by learning to lead Christ-centered lives.