Renee Beyer Community Development Fund

Renee Beyer Community Development Fund

Funder: United Way of Northern New York in partnership with Northern New York Community Foundation

Geographic Scope: Lewis County, New York

Program Description: A grant opportunity honoring the legacy of Renee Beyer, Lewis County's former senior planner and community leader. The fund supports grassroots projects that reflect the values Renee held dear: compassion, collaboration, community pride, and civic engagement. Renee believed in the power of people working together to strengthen their communities and was a connector by nature. She was a graduate of the inaugural Lewis County Leadership Academy.

Fund Background

• Established: 2013 (after Renee Beyer's passing)
• Held At: Northern New York Community Foundation
• First Awards: 2025 (inaugural grants from the fund)

Focus Areas

Funds support:
• Community-led projects that promote revitalization, leadership, and civic engagement
• Grassroots initiatives reflecting grassroots leadership and local efforts
• Quality of life improvements for community members
• Projects embodying compassion, collaboration, and community pride

2025 Grant Recipients

• Society for the Preservation of the West Martinsburg Church - $1,500 (handicapped-accessible ramp)
• Lewis County Agricultural Society - $4,500 (fairgrounds beautification)
• Naturally Lewis - $2,500 (scholarships for Lewis County Leadership Academy)

Eligibility

• Nonprofit organizations serving Lewis County
• Projects that align with Renee Beyer's vision of community strengthening
• Application-based selection process reviewed by volunteer committee including Renee's family members

Contact Information

United Way of Northern New York
• Address: 167 Polk Street, Suite 300, Watertown, NY 13601
• Phone: (315) 788-5631
• Email: info@unitedway-nny.org
• Website: unitedway-nny.org