Frequently Asked Questions

How did the Salem Community Activities Center come to be?

The Gift of Class
The original high school building in Salem, which was built in 1915, was auctioned by the school board on the courthouse steps in late-1970's. Thelma Bailey, a member of the community bought the school with the intent of turning it into a community center. She spent $25,000 to acquire the building and in excess of $250,000 for essential renovations necessary to convert the school to a community center.
The Community Activities Center Became A Reality
In 1981, the Salem Community Activities Center, Inc., opened. The Center operates as a non-for-profit organization with 501 (c)(3) designation. The Center has been able to stabilize and maintain a budget in the black over the years.

Who uses the center?

Currently, the center tenants include the Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of the United States of America, Food Pantry and the City Parks and Recreation Department. The Center provides a variety of services such as monthly senior dances, American Red Cross, karate classes, volleyball and basketball open gym and leagues and GED classes. Additionally community members can rent areas in the Center for parties, meetings and weddings. The Center is utilized by the community more today than any time in history. Today the center is utilized by over 50,000 people each year. Stop by the Center to see the facility. Whether you join us as a morning walker or drop by for a leisurely visit, we will be pleased to show you around. Always welcome are suggestions for new and improved programs. This is your center, visit it soon. Long before it was trendy to renovate significant historical building, one woman thought the town would be better off making use of the school rather than tearing it down. Time and time again the community has have proven here right.

How is the center funded?

Fundraising to support the ongoing renovation and programs of the Center is an endless effort. From small projects to large, the board members and the community work together to raise the yearly budget. Programs include, Prom Dress Sale, Golf Tournament, Room Sponsorship, Memorial Floor Tiles, Grants, Donations, Direct Mail, 2nd Hand Shop and the annual Dinner Dance and Auction. Over $35,000 is raised each year through these efforts. With the income generated from weekly Bingo games the Board is able to operate the Center and gradually expand the programs offered the community.

How can I help?

What about renovations?

In recent years the old school building benefited from extensive renovations. In 1999 & 2000 with Illinois First grants, the Center replaced the roof and met other renovation goals. The entry foyer, the first floor hallway and restrooms (now handicapped accessible), the blue room the second floor classrooms and the gym have all received improvements. Third floor classrooms, kitchen and cafeteria are next to be renovated.