Longtime Business Owner Calls for Greater Support of Local Businesses and Animal Rescue Efforts

EAST ROCHESTER, NY / ACCESS Newswire / December 31, 2025 / Entrepreneur and community leader Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf has been featured in a new in-depth interview exploring her decades-long career, her leadership across multiple industries, and her commitment to local community growth. The feature highlights her unique journey from growing up on a four-generation Christmas tree farm to becoming an award-winning realtor, small business owner, nonprofit president, and advocate for animal welfare.

In response to the interview, Lauren is using the moment to raise awareness about the critical importance of community-supported entrepreneurship and local rescue initiatives.

"Local businesses don't survive by accident," she says. "They survive because people show up for them, trust them, and value the traditions they help create."

Calling for Stronger Community Support

Small businesses are responsible for nearly 50% of all U.S. jobs (U.S. Small Business Administration) and contribute three times more money back into local economies compared to national chains. Yet many local entrepreneurs struggle to keep up with rising costs, shifts in consumer behavior, and limited access to marketing resources.

Lauren hopes her story helps people see how much impact small businesses have on the strength, identity, and economic health of their towns.

"I grew up watching families return to our farm year after year," she says. "Those relationships kept our doors open. And that's true for almost every small business out there."

She encourages residents to support local makers, farms, shops, and service providers in simple, meaningful ways: choosing local when possible, spreading the word about businesses they love, and showing patience during peak seasons or short-staffed moments.

"Even one choice - like buying a gift from a local shop instead of ordering online - can make a real difference," she adds.

Advocacy for Animal Rescue

In addition to supporting local businesses, Lauren is also using her platform to advocate for expanded community involvement in animal rescue efforts. As President of Habitat for Cats, she has played a key role in helping thousands of animals across the region receive care, shelter, and safe placement.

"People underestimate how many animals need help," Lauren explains. "We see new litters every week. We see abandoned pets. And we see how much relief even small acts of kindness can bring."

According to national estimates, over 3 million cats enter U.S. shelters each year, and community-based rescues handle far more cases than municipal facilities. Many of these organizations operate fully on volunteer time and public donations.

Lauren emphasizes that supporting animal welfare doesn't always require money. "You can help by fostering, sharing posts, donating old towels, or simply spreading awareness. Community rescue works because everyday people decide to step up."

A Lifetime of Service and Leadership

The press coverage highlights Lauren's hands-on leadership style and her ability to bridge industries through purpose-driven entrepreneurship. From running a boutique at age 23, to modernizing her family's historic tree farm, to expanding a regional septic service business, to assisting homebuyers as a realtor, she has built a career defined by service and resilience.

"In every business I've run, I've learned the same lesson," she says. "Success comes from consistency and care. You don't have to have the perfect plan. You just have to show up every day and do the work."

Call to Action: What People Can Do

Lauren encourages individuals to take simple steps that strengthen their communities and improve the lives of both people and animals:

• Shop local whenever possible

• Share or recommend a local business you love

• Volunteer with or support local rescue groups

• Offer skills or mentoring to young entrepreneurs

• Look for small ways to show kindness - it adds up

"You don't need to own a business to make a difference," Lauren says. "Communities thrive when everyday people choose to support each other. Even the smallest actions can help keep our towns strong."

To read the full interview, visit the website here.

About Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf

Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf is a lifelong entrepreneur, community leader, and fourth-generation owner of Kunz's Tree Farm in Webster, New York. She has built a diverse career across retail, real estate, and service industries, and currently serves as President of Habitat for Cats, where she has helped expand rescue efforts for thousands of animals. Known for her hands-on leadership and commitment to community growth, Lauren continues to support local businesses and advocate for stronger involvement in animal welfare.

Media Contact:

info@laurenkunzchateauneufnewyork.com

SOURCE: Lauren Kunz Chateauneuf