Community Leader Highlights Tangible Effects of Local Disinvestment in Upstate New York

Entrepreneur and nonprofit leader Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf is drawing attention to the quiet erosion of local support systems in upstate New York communities and its immediate, tangible consequences for residents. Drawing from decades of experience, she states the effects are already visible in strained small businesses, volunteer groups, and families. "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."

Across Monroe County and the surrounding region, small businesses and nonprofits face pressure from rising costs, staffing shortages, and declining volunteer participation. Key indicators illustrate the scope. 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."

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 emphasized the long-term nature of local ecosystems, comparing community investment to growing trees. "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."

Lauren notes that many residents want to help but aren't sure how to make a lasting impact. "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." She shared simple, realistic steps residents can take, such as buying one item from a locally owned business instead of a national chain, leaving a thoughtful review, sharing a local business on social media, asking a local organization its most urgent need, volunteering for one hour, attending a local event, referring a friend to a local service provider, donating supplies, being patient with short staffing, and thanking a local business owner or volunteer directly. "Small actions add up faster than people think," Lauren said.

For finding 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, check whether they publish updates, talk to volunteers or customers directly, and 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." Her message is straightforward: communities stay strong because people decide to take part. She encourages residents to choose one local action today and repeat it. "That's how momentum starts," she said.