Entrepreneur and nonprofit leader Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf is drawing attention to the tangible consequences of community disinvestment across upstate New York, where weakening local support systems directly impact daily life. The effects are visible in strained small businesses, understaffed nonprofits, and reduced volunteer participation, creating a cycle that threatens regional stability.
Across Monroe County and surrounding areas, key indicators reveal systemic pressures. Small businesses, which constitute over 99% of businesses in New York State, operate with thinner margins than pre-2020 levels. In Monroe County, nearly half of nonprofit organizations function with fewer than five full-time staff members, increasing their dependence on volunteers. Local animal rescues report intake levels 20–30% higher than pre-pandemic norms while experiencing a decline in foster capacity. More than 60% of consumer spending in the region now goes to non-local retailers, diverting funds away from the local economy. Seasonal businesses, common in the region, note that one missed peak season can affect operations for an entire year.
"These aren't abstract numbers," Chateauneuf said. "They translate into shorter hours, fewer services, and more strain on people who are already stretched." Her perspective comes from decades of experience running local businesses, leading the regional animal rescue Habitat for Cats, and working directly with families. She observes that when support systems weaken, businesses cut hours or rescues pause intake, directly affecting community members.
The long-term nature of these ecosystems means damage from disinvestment may not be immediately apparent. "When you grow trees, you learn patience," Chateauneuf said, referencing her family's business, Kunz's Tree Farm. "Communities work the same way. If you stop investing, you don't see the damage immediately, but it shows up later." This slow erosion can undermine economic resilience and social cohesion over time.
Chateauneuf emphasizes that consistent, small actions are more effective than grand gestures. Local businesses and organizations depend on predictable engagement—repeat customers, steady volunteers, and word-of-mouth referrals. She suggests practical steps residents can take immediately, such as buying one item from a locally owned business instead of a national chain, leaving thoughtful reviews for local shops, sharing local organizations on social media, or volunteering even one hour. Other actions include attending local events, referring friends to local services, donating supplies, being patient with short staffing, and directly thanking business owners or volunteers.
To identify trustworthy local resources, Chateauneuf recommends looking for organizations with a visible local presence, clear leadership, and a history of community service. Transparency and consistency are key indicators of reliability. "Trust comes from transparency and time," she said. "If something has been here for years, there's usually a reason."
The importance of this issue lies in its direct impact on community vitality. As consumer spending shifts away from local retailers and volunteer participation declines, the capacity of small businesses and nonprofits to serve residents diminishes. This can lead to reduced services, economic instability, and increased social strain. Chateauneuf's call to action is straightforward: choose one local action today and repeat it. "Communities don't stay strong on their own," she said. "They stay strong because people decide to take part."
