The 27 for 2027 Campaign: Salem Reporter Seeks $27,000 to Expand Newsroom
Local journalism takes a financial toll, and community newsrooms are constantly testing new models to keep their reporting lights on. Salem Reporter announced a year-end fundraising drive titled “27 for 2027,” asking supporters to contribute tax-deductible donations to the Salem Reporter News Fund with a clear target of $27,000 by January 1. Founded in 2018 by editor and owner Les Zaitz, a journalist with over 50 years of experience in Oregon newspapers, the digital publication aims to use these funds to add two journalists to its staff in the new year.
The push for fresh capital follows a busy 2026 for the outlet, which merged with the weekly newspaper Keizertimes in September. The combined operation now reaches subscribers across both communities with dedicated local coverage. Earlier in the year, the newsroom established a dedicated education reporting team featuring Eddy Binford-Ross and Kent Friel, a project made possible through a partnership with the national nonprofit Report for America alongside reader contributions.
Building Watchdog Reporting and Business Stability
That reporting muscle allowed the publication to dive deep into local issues, ranging from Salem-Keizer school closures and academic performance to staff reductions as district enrollment dropped. Reporter Joe Siess investigated plans for a data center proposed by Verrus, uncovering controversial nondisclosure agreements and land deals that Tina Kotek ultimately axed. Meanwhile, reporters Abbey McDonald and Madeleine Moore shadowed mobile teams and documented the daily realities of individuals living in local homeless camps.
Healthcare and local government also drew intense scrutiny. Hailey Cook tracked the merger between Salem Health and a Stayton-based hospital, earning a national fellowship for her work, while Krista Kroiss covered Keizer’s city-run events center operating deep in the red. The publication’s commitment to accountability extended to the courthouse, where Salem Reporter sued Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell to obtain records regarding interactions with law enforcement and judges after a traffic citation involving her daughter.
Behind the scenes, the business operations underwent a significant transformation. Salem Reporter was selected as one of 20 U.S. newsrooms to participate in a national journalism management program, providing access to business finance, marketing, and human resources experts. Zaitz noted that this guidance helped the organization transition from a traditional mom-and-pop shop into a sharper professional enterprise.
What the Next Year Holds for Readers
The upcoming “27 for 2027” fund drive is designed to sustain and expand these reporting efforts. Reaching the $27,000 goal by January 1 will allow the newsroom to retain its education team, broaden its coverage of homelessness, and increase reader engagement through local gatherings, video broadcasts, and partnerships with other regional media organizations.
Supporters can contribute securely online or mail tax-deductible donations to the Salem Reporter News Fund at 494 State St. #210, Salem, OR 97301, noting the contribution is for “27 for 2027.” As local governments grapple with public records transparency and complex community challenges, the newsroom’s next chapter depends entirely on whether readers step up to fund the watchdogs keeping score.
