Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Explore Oregon

You could do your discipleship training school virtually, or anywhere in the world. So, why come to YWAM Salem and spend your campus phase in Oregon? Here's one simple answer − you get to explore the great state of Oregon!

Overflowing with cozy communities, cultural hubs, and gorgeous examples of God's natural creations, Salem, Oregon is one of the country's best-kept secret travel destinations. Plus, you'll still get to experience the impact of our mission training programs in other locations as part of an overseas mission trip during the DTS outreach phase.

When God calls us to spread His word to unreached communities, he doesn't just mean working in the mission field that has the best beach or restaurant. He calls us to perform cross-cultural ministry across the nations. It's just lucky that YWAM Salem isn't far from one of America's most stunning ocean views!

Here are the top 10 reasons why YWAM Salem is a great destination for your missionary training.

1. We have our own seven wonders

When you stay with YWAM Salem, you can feast your eyes on some incredible things without ever leaving the state. Oregon is home to 7 natural wonders, each only a car ride away from our campus.

There's the breathtaking Crater Lake, The Oregon Coast, and its unlimited activities, hiking in The Painted Hills, and stunning views from Mt. Hood. If you love the outdoors, from mountains to rivers to the ocean, and you love exploring in all seasons, YWAM Salem is the place for you!

Only an hour south of Portland, Oregon, on the Western edge of the state, we're located in a prime spot for weekend travel to these natural wonders, and even evening jaunts to the city. Each of our discipleship training schools gives students ample free time to explore and reflect in their own space or across the state.

2. Best coffee scene around

If you’re picky about coffee, we speak that language. If you don’t care about coffee, that might start to change. At YWAM Salem, you never have to look too far for a great cup of coffee or a great coffee shop!

Portland is a national coffee hub with countless independent coffee shops and roasters. That love of fresh coffee made its way to Salem and the surrounding areas, including our campus! We own and operate our very own local digs, Cafe Salem.

You can spend your time lounging, making new friends, and, of course, sipping some delicious brews. Or, if your passion for coffee goes beyond the counter, you can help operate the cafe as a barista for a practical application of your cross-cultural training in missions.

3. We’re one of the “Greenest” states in the US

No matter your political affiliation, going green is good for everyone. You’d be surprised what you can compost. At YWAM Salem, we love our environment and we’re down to preserve it. Plus, we’re literally green!

In Oregon, 65% of our energy is generated from renewables and we recycle 36.5% of all our waste. The state ranks #1 for renewable energy consumption, 8th for LEED-certified buildings per capita, and 7th for soil quality.

So, if you care as much about God's green creations as we do, then YWAM Salem is the place for you. Strengthen your relationship with God at your own pace during missionary training school, while also learning how to spread His love to make other believers by connecting through your passion for the environment.

4. You can be you!

Portland’s city slogan is “Keep Portland Weird”. Uniqueness is celebrated at YWAM Salem.

If roller skating, speaking pig Latin and using suction cup bow and arrows is your thing, we love that about you! DTS isn't about becoming someone new, it's about stepping fully into the person you've always been destined to be - quirks and all! God doesn't love a perfect picture, he loves you as He made you!

At YWAM Salem, you'll be immersed in a community of like-minded future missionaries all with their own unique personalities and interests. Our flock is full of students from all walks of life, backgrounds, and locations, so while you'll fit right in, you'll also be free to stand out in the best ways.

5. No sales tax

What you see at YWAM Salem is what you get. No changing the price at the register, and The Dollar Store isn’t secretly the $1.08 store.

We understand that DTS can be a big expense, and while proper fundraising can successfully equip Christians with the funds they need to join our experience, it can be much easier to budget for a training program when the prices are upfront and locked in.

6. PDX is frequently voted the best airport in the US

It goes without saying that we at YWAM Salem travel A LOT.

The more you travel, the more important airport quality becomes. It is glorious to know that no matter how many LAXs and JFKs we might occasionally have to pass through, our port of entry is excellent.

Portland International Airport is so beloved, that even the carpeting has its own virtual following: #pdxcarpet!

7. Proximity

Want to escape to the beach? That’s one hour away. Downtown in one of America’s coolest cities? So close! Desert? Hot Springs? Forest? Rainforest? Mountains? Farmland? Maybe even closer! Take the commute out of the seized weekend with YWAM Salem.

We're conveniently located near every type of ecosystem, community, or event you could want to attend. Only minutes outside the cozy streets of Salem, a 1-hour drive south of Portland or the beach, and so much more. As a student at YWAM Salem, you won't be limited in your exploration of God's creations as you might be in a more remote location or even a flexible online platform.

8. Portland’s one of the best foodie cities in America

Sure, everyone enjoys eating, but there is more to be experienced than you could ever imagine.

Thanks to a diverse population, we’ve got the best recipes from around the globe competing for the chance to tantalize your taste buds. From curries to street tacos, ice creameries, and food carts - Portland is the place to experience the best of everywhere.

It's also home to a historic music scene, independent shops and attractions, and the most classic weather and aesthetics the Pacific Northwest is loved for.

9. That Pioneer Spirit

At the core of Portland's, and in turn, YWAM Salem's culture is a drive to go forth and explore, creating great things along the way.

The restless need to keep moving forward hedges out any contentment with the status quo. Our founders braved the unknown and moved west in covered wagons, emboldening us to pursue dreams of our own, including spreading God's word to the nations to fulfill the Great Commission.

10. YWAM Salem is HERE!

YES! Oregon is our home, and we love it here! But don't just take our word for it; see for yourself by applying for one of our missions training programs. We can't wait to see you here!