Right Start UP has transformed the former Hirvonen Hall into a community space and raised nearly $26,000 through Giving Tuesday 2024 to support ongoing renovations.
The Hancock Community Hub houses various nonprofits, small businesses and community spaces for the copper country. Anna Sanchez, building manager for Right Start UP, said maintaining the century-old building requires significant effort.
“I think a lot of people might forget that this building was built in 1923. That is an old building and it comes with a lot of labor and love in order to make sure that this is a safe, welcoming, accessible space for our community,” Sanchez said. “So repairing the roof to make sure that all the businesses and organizations and community members that are coming to the building aren’t getting dripped on. So that is one of our focuses is the roof repair and our part in playing in the roof repair.”
Right Start Up plans to work on renovations inside the gymnasium to fit the needs of the copper country. Through providing space for entrepreneurs and community organizations, Right Start Up promotes health and family development.
The hub houses the Keweenaw Community Foundation, Gabbie’s Guppies, events and programs, and hosts a maker’s space with a workshop.
Learn more about Right Start Up and Giving Tuesday with Copper Shores is available online.
