Be BLAC Pillars
Business Development
We are committed to supporting new and existing Black-owned businesses through community, education, and capacity-building. Our goal is to provide continuous development through hands-on workshops, strategic partnerships, and access to front-facing organizations that can help businesses grow. We also offer spaces to connect, promote, and elevate your work—including our curated Business Directory and regular networking events designed to build visibility and support throughout Marion and Polk County.Education & Youth
Elevate and advance the academic support for our next generation. This is the heart of our Education & Youth pillar. We support and collaborate with programs focused on academic achievement, college readiness, and workforce development to build a pipeline of strong, purpose-driven leaders who are equipped for the future.
We are also deeply invested in mentorship and tutoring—in collaboration with the programs we support. We proudly support initiatives within the Salem-Keizer School District and invite community members to join us in making a difference. If you’re interested in becoming a tutor or mentor, please fill out our Tutor/Mentor Form.
In addition, we are passionate about centering Black culture and history through reading initiatives and shared educational resources. If your school, program, or organization would like to receive books by Black authors or host a Book Cart featuring culturally relevant materials, please let us know below.
Community Networking
Organizing BE-BLAC Community gatherings and acting as a connecting hub for Black-initiated community events. This pillar centers our role in bringing people together across Marion and Polk County. We organize BE-BLAC gatherings that foster unity, pride, and collective progress, while also serving as a bridge to connect individuals and organizations doing impactful work in the Black community.We actively promote upcoming events, uplift other community-led efforts, and support causes that align with our mission. Events such as Back to School celebrations, Black History Month programming, and resource fairs are just some of the ways we spread the word and engage with our community.
If you’re interested in volunteering at one of our events or supporting our outreach efforts, please fill out the Volunteer Interest Form below.