By Nathaniel A. Lopez
In June, Vitalyst Health invested $50,000 in three community establishments in the Copper Corridor, as part of the first phase of establishing Resilience Hubs that will work together as The Copper Corridor Co-Lab. The first three to join the regional network were Leo’s Community Development Center in Superior (regeneratingsonora.org), Miami Arts Commission (miamiartscommision.org) and Set Free Church in Kearny.
“This crucial funding will enable our communities to proactively prepare for and respond to emergencies such as fires, floods, power outages, supply chain disruptions, and more,” said lead facilitator Anna Purpera.
“Copper Corridor communities, she said, are particularly vulnerable to various natural and human-made disasters due to our location. It is imperative that we develop resilience and foster relationships with our neighbors before these resources are critically needed,” she added.
The Copper Corridor Co-Lab, an informal collaborative of nonprofits and community members aiming to address key issues in the region, have recognized this need and are developing a regional network of Resilience Hubs.
“This effort,” she said, “will enhance the infrastructure of existing community centers, making them pivotal in both everyday and crisis situations.”
By upgrading their facilities with solar panels, satellite internet, raised garden beds, radio equipment and freeze dryers, as well as training community members in First Aid CPR, and other critical skills, Purpera said, these community centers are ensuring that they are well-equipped to serve their neighbors in times of need. This effort has also led to the creation of the Superior Fire Corps in partnership with the Town of Superior’s Fire Department and is open to community members in neighboring towns.
“Ultimately, the goal of this network of Hubs is to work together to increase the resilience of each community, and thereby increase the resilience of the region as a whole,” Purpera stated. “We encourage other Copper Corridor organizations that operate a community center to join this critical initiative. By becoming part of the Regional Network of Resilience Hubs, communities can significantly enhance their capacity to withstand and recover from disasters, creating a safer and more connected region. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Vitalyst Health Foundation (vitalysthealth.org) for their substantial contribution. Their investment is a pivotal step towards building a robust network of Resilience Hubs that will serve as a lifeline for our communities in times of need. Together, we can build a resilient Copper Corridor.”
About the Copper Corridor Co-Lab
The Copper Corridor Resilience Hub Network is a project of the Copper Corridor Co-Lab, an informal group of residents dedicated to making all communities in the Copper Corridor thrive and is funded by the Vitalyst Health Foundation. Using a combination of grassroots and systemic approaches, the Copper Corridor Co-Lab is addressing key issues in the region, like promoting self-sufficiency through emergency preparedness and planning, coordinating a regional events calendar, and addressing housing and land use issues. Through collaborative efforts and community initiatives, the Copper Corridor Co-Lab strives to preserve the area’s cultural richness, and enhance quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
If you are interested in knowing more, or becoming involved with the Copper Corridor Co-Lab, contact Lead Facilitator Anna Purpera at ajcastonguay92@gmail.com or 716-462-8882.