We are now well beyond the last major economic disruption—the COVID-19 pandemic—and have continued to develop and implement strategies focused on ensuring that our communities are strong, resilient, and supported by a healthy economy. Communities and regions that plan and work together build resilience. Community development and economic development are deeply intertwined: strong communities create the conditions for economic growth, and thriving economies generate resources that support community well-being.

This year, the Thurston County region ranked in the top ten nationally for:

• Income equality (Milken Institute)
• Best overall economy & high-tech job growth (Chmura Analytics)
• Top destination for women on business trips (Pew Research Center & The Seattle Times)

These rankings are worth celebrating—but more importantly, they reflect the quality of life and opportunities available to people who live and work here. The EDC uses these rankings to attract new investment and employers, while also recognizing that they represent the positive impacts of work already being done here.

Economic development isn’t just about attracting new business—it’s about people. A healthy local economy depends on a skilled workforce, engaged residents, and the creation of opportunities for the next generation. Everyone in the community and region benefits when more people contribute and participate. Whether that participation is through education, hands-on training, or starting a local business, creating more pathways into the economy makes our communities stronger.

Local organizations are essential partners in economic development. Non-profits, schools, hospitals, community groups, and faith communities are all key partners in creating the conditions where people and businesses can thrive. This broader approach to economic development—in what it means, how efforts are conducted, and the establishment of networks with “non-traditional” partners—started in the late 2000s and has since become a strength of our region.

Recently, the EDC identified critical partners across the region engaged in economic and community development activities. This asset-mapping effort surfaced more than 5,400 activities, partners, and initiatives. Combined and strategically aligned, these create the economy and community in which we all strive to live and prosper.

Economic development leads to real benefits for local people: good jobs, strong neighborhoods, and places where families can put down roots. That’s what makes people want to come here, stay here, invest, and build their future here.

About the Community Foundation of South Puget Sound

Mindie Reule is the President & CEO of the Community Foundation of South Puget Sound.

The Community Foundation of South Puget Sound serves as a hub of philanthropy for the region, helping individuals, families, and businesses make a difference today while building community resources for the future. Its mission is to promote a lasting culture of generosity and well-being in the South Sound through connection, leadership, and investment. Since 1989, the Foundation has awarded more than $29 million in grants and scholarships throughout the region.