HANCOCK — The Copper Country Ski Tigers, a community-based nonprofit focused on youth cross-country skiing, is excited to announce the creation of a head competition team coach and program director. They feel this is a significant step forward in the organization’s mission to develop lifelong skills and a passion for nordic skiing among area youth.

“This is an exciting time for our organization and for youth cross-country skiing in the Copper Country,” said Amy Hamlin, Race Team Manager for Copper Country Ski Tigers. “This new coaching position allows us to expand our reach and provide advanced and consistent training to support our skiers – from first-timers to regional competitors. The funds raised through Giving Tuesday are crucial in making this position a success.”

Ski Tigers has introduced hundreds of children to the joys of cross-country skiing for nearly three decades, helping them stay active, build friendships, and participate in local and regional race events. The organization operates in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, where abundant lake effect snow and over 80 kilometers of top quality groomed trails provides some of the best skiing opportunities in the Midwest. For thirty years, the organization has relied on volunteers and small stipends to coach youth of all ages and abilities. Having a dedicated head competition team coach and program director will help the program meet growing demand and continue its mission of fostering a love for the outdoors while supporting youth ages 5-18 through all levels of nordic skiing.

To help support this new position, Ski Tigers has raised $4,900 from key donors and is looking to raise an additional $10,000 by the 2026 ski season. Supporting this fundraising effort is the annual Giving Tuesday event organized and hosted by the Copper Shores Community Health Foundation. Ski Tigers is one of 50 area nonprofits raising money in this year’s Giving Tuesday event.

The Giving Tuesday event provides an opportunity for community members to amplify their donations, as Copper Shores has set aside $200,000 to match individual and group contributions to participating nonprofits. Donating to Copper Country Ski Tigers will directly contribute to building a stronger, healthier, and more active youth community.

The Copper Shores Community Health Foundation organizes an annual Giving Tuesday event that supports over 50 non-profit organizations across the Copper Country. The fundraiser raises millions of dollars each year to support organizations that positively impact the region’s health. The Giving Tuesday 2025 portal opened on Nov. 11, 2025, and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025.Copper Country Ski Tigers establishes head competition team coach and program director