Salem Kroc Center Executive Director Tony Frazier will receive the inaugural Nonprofit Leadership Award at the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet on Saturday, April 18.
On Thursday, March 12, a group of Tony’s friends and community partners joined us to surprise him at Gamberetti’s with the news of his recognition. Join us at the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet to see the surprise on video!
Throughout his career, Tony Frazier has built a reputation as a leader who believes deeply in the potential of people — particularly young people who face barriers to opportunity. Nowhere has that commitment been more evident than in his leadership at the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Center in Salem, where his work has expanded education, workforce development, and family support programs that are changing lives across the community.
At the Kroc Center, Tony has helped transform the organization into a hub, not only for recreation and community gathering, but also for education and career pathways. Through his leadership, the center has secured millions of dollars in grant funding to support family education initiatives, workforce training programs, and early learning opportunities. These resources have opened doors for families and individuals who might otherwise struggle to access educational and career-building opportunities.
A central focus of Tony’s work has been preparing young people for the workforce. By developing programs that combine hands-on learning with mentorship and career exposure, he has helped hundreds of young people gain practical skills and confidence. Programs, such as the I-Build construction program, allow participants to learn real-world trades while contributing to meaningful community projects. For many, the experience is their first exposure to professional work environments and career possibilities.
Tony’s approach to leadership is rooted in collaboration. He has worked closely with educational institutions, including Chemeketa Community College, to expand access to GED programs and career training. These partnerships ensure that individuals who may have fallen behind in traditional education systems still have a pathway toward success. By connecting education, workforce development, and community organizations, Tony has helped build a network of support that benefits families throughout the region.
Before joining the Kroc Center, Tony’s work with organizations, such as the Community Services Consortium and Habitat for Humanity, focused on helping young people gain job skills and employment opportunities. He also previously served as a Construction Manager for YouthBuild, where he utilized more than 500 volunteers to complete renovation and construction of more than 120 homes following the devastating destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina. Those experiences shaped the philosophy he brings to the Kroc Center today.
Tony is often described as someone who leads with empathy, positivity, and an unwavering belief in others. He is known for encouraging those around him and celebrating their successes. His ability to inspire others has multiplied the impact of the programs he oversees, creating a culture where staff and partners are motivated to invest in the success of the community’s youth.
In addition to his professional leadership, Tony contributes to the broader community through service on numerous boards and committees focused on workforce development, economic growth, and education. His involvement helps connect community leaders, employers, and educators in efforts to strengthen opportunities across the region.
Through his leadership, Tony Frazier has helped create programs that do more than teach skills — they build confidence, provide hope, and open doors. His work continues to shape a future where more young people in Salem have the support and opportunities they need to succeed.
We cannot wait to honor Tony and for you to join us at the 75th Annual First Citizen Awards Banquet!
See below for event details and make sure to get your tickets!
75th First Citizen Awards Banquet
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Salem Convention Center
GET TICKETS: https://salemchamber.org/events/first-citizen/
Join us at the banquet to celebrate Tony, the rest of our esteemed honorees, and our incredible community.
We thank our First Citizen Awards sponsors, including Presenting Sponsors Mountain West Center for Community Excellence and Pioneer Trust Bank, for making this premier Salem event possible.
