The Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) is joining the Copper Shores Community Health Foundation’s Giving Tuesday campaign for the first time in 2026. The group hopes to expand its work with community leaders, developers and regional initiatives.
Since 2016, Giving Tuesday has grown to include a wide network of nonprofits working toward healthy outcomes in the Copper Country. While many partners focus on seniors or children, others preserve the region’s natural spaces, including its forests, lakes and wildlife.
KEDA focuses on the region’s economic health. Executive Director Jeff Ratcliffe said economic growth creates benefits that extend beyond business.
“It’s a spillover effect over time,” Ratcliffe said. “As we make improvements in our communities, in our downtowns, we bring back old buildings, we make them more livable places. It helps us retain and attract people to our area. You’ve got to work at it. You’ve got to set the table for the economy.”
Ratcliffe said revitalizing older buildings and public spaces helps attract residents and businesses. He compared economic development to exercise, saying a region must keep investing in its economy to stay strong.
The Copper Shores Community Health Foundation’s Giving Tuesday campaign supports nonprofit organizations across the region. KEDA’s participation marks the first time the economic development group has joined the effort.
