June Simonka Giving Circle
“What About the Women?”
June Simonka asked her husband George, who was the executive director of Union Gospel Mission of Salem, this question. This single question highlighted a need, sparked conversations, ignited compassion, and eventually led to the opening of UGM’s Simonka Place in 1968 – the first homeless shelter of its kind on the West Coast.
Since that initial day, thousands of women and children have discovered refuge and experienced God’s transformative love, resulting in renewed lives and families.
Join the Giving Circle
Current Member Portal
The June Simonka Giving Circle embodies June’s heart for hurting and homeless women.
The mission of the Giving Circle is to restore dignity to our sisters in need by loving and equipping each woman with the tools and resources she needs to break free from homelessness and thrive in her calling.
Members are a compassionate group of individuals dedicated to this mission – community members who stand alongside our sisters in times of hardship.
“She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy.”
The Giving Circle Breakdown
1. Learn
Lean in and learn about homelessness through workshops, and educational community events, both onsite and offsite.
2. Engage
Members commit to volunteering throughout the year. The serving opportunities are endless.
3. Give
With membership comes voting opportunity to decide how the circles funds are spent to bless others.
Your Impact as a Member
As a Giving Circle Member, your member dues directly go towards the women and children at Simonka Place. Each year, you will vote on how that money should be spent.
Recent Giving Circle Grant Projects
Splashpad for summer fun!
Search and Rescue van for Simonka Place
Art Therapy sessions for guests
New Ice Machine
Mom and Children outings
New Life Fellowship overnight retreat
Pool Party for Moms and Children
So Much More!
Giving Circle Grant Process
Step 1: Membership Enrollment and Entry Fee Payment
There are two membership levels available, each with different entry fees: $500 for one vote and $1,000 for two votes during grant allocations.
Step 2: Grant Request Submissions by SP Staff
Simonka Place staff write grant requests specifying how they wish to utilize the funds generated from the members' entry fees.
Step 3: Member Voting for Project Funding
Members are given the opportunity to vote for the projects or initiatives they believe are most deserving of funding.
Questions?
Want to learn more about the Giving Circle? I would love to grab coffee with you or chat over the phone to talk through this great opportunity. Feel free to reach out!
Melissa Ludington
Giving Circle Coordinator
mludington@ugmsalem.org
503-967-6388 ext. 307