Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf Calls Attention to the Local Impact of Community Disinvestment

Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf of Webster, New York, explains how small shifts in local support affect families, businesses, and animal welfare across the region.

ROCHESTER, NY, February 18, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, and fourth-generation business owner Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf is speaking out about a growing issue facing communities across upstate New York: the quiet erosion of local support systems and what that means for residents on a day-to-day level.

Drawing from decades of experience running local businesses, leading a regional animal rescue, and working directly with families, Lauren says the effects are already visible.

"When people stop showing up locally, the impact is immediate," she said. "You feel it in small businesses, volunteer groups, and families who rely on those systems staying strong."

A Broader Issue With Local Consequences
Across Monroe County and the surrounding region, small businesses and nonprofits are facing pressure from rising costs, staffing shortages, and declining volunteer participation.

Some key local and regional indicators include:
Small businesses account for over 99% of businesses in New York State, yet many report thinner margins than pre-2020 levels.

In Monroe County, nearly half of nonprofit organizations operate with fewer than five full-time staff, increasing reliance on volunteers.

Local animal rescues across upstate New York report intake levels that remain 20–30% higher than pre-pandemic norms, while foster capacity has declined.

More than 60% of consumer spending in the region now goes to non-local retailers, reducing dollars that stay in the local economy.

Seasonal businesses, common in upstate New York, report that one missed peak season can affect operations for an entire year.

"These aren't abstract numbers," Lauren said. "They translate into shorter hours, fewer services, and more strain on people who are already stretched."

What It Looks Like on the Ground
Lauren's perspective is shaped by hands-on involvement across sectors.

"Customers notice when things change," she said. "If a business cuts hours or a rescue pauses intake, it's usually because the support system around it weakened."

She also emphasized the long-term nature of local ecosystems.

"When you grow trees, you learn patience," she said. "You don't get results right away. Communities work the same way. If you stop investing, you don't see the damage immediately, but it shows up later."

From her nonprofit work, the pattern is similar.

"You can't just talk about making a difference," she said. "You have to show up and do it, especially when resources are tight."

Why This Matters Now
Lauren notes that many residents want to help but aren't sure how to make an impact that actually sticks.

"People think they need big gestures," she said. "Most of the time, what matters is consistency."

Local businesses and organizations depend on predictable engagement — repeat customers, steady volunteers, and word-of-mouth referrals.

"You don't need to own a business to support one," Lauren said. "You just need to choose it."

Local Action List: 10 Things You Can Do This Week
Lauren shared simple, realistic steps residents can take right now:
Buy one item from a locally owned business instead of a national chain.
Leave a thoughtful review for a local shop or service you trust.
Share a local business or nonprofit on your social media.
Ask a local organization what their most urgent need is.
Volunteer one hour, even if it's a one-time commitment.
Attend a local event, market, or fundraiser.
Refer a friend to a local service provider.
Donate supplies instead of money if budgets are tight.
Be patient with short staffing or limited hours.
Thank a local business owner or volunteer directly.

"Small actions add up faster than people think," Lauren said.

How to Find Trustworthy Local Resources
Lauren recommends starting close to home:
Look for organizations with a visible local presence and clear leadership.
Ask how long they've served the community and who they help.
Check whether they publish updates or reports on their work.
Talk to volunteers or customers directly.
Prioritize groups that show consistency over hype.

"Trust comes from transparency and time," she said. "If something has been here for years, there's usually a reason."

A Simple Call to Action
Lauren encourages residents not to wait for the "right moment."

"Communities don't stay strong on their own," she said. "They stay strong because people decide to take part."

Her message is straightforward: choose one local action today, then repeat it.

"That's how momentum starts," she said.

Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf is a Webster, New York–based entrepreneur, community leader, and fourth-generation owner of Kunz's Tree Farm. Her career spans retail, agriculture, real estate, service businesses, and nonprofit leadership. She currently serves as President of Habitat for Cats and is known for her hands-on approach to operations, community engagement, and long-term sustainability.

Read the full story here: https://www.24-7pressrelease.com/press-release/531946/lauren-kunz-chateauneuf-calls-attention-to-the-local-impact-of-community-disinvestment

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