Lewis County Projects Receive First Grants Honoring Renee Beyer’s Legacy
United Way of Northern New York is honored to announce the first grants awarded through the Renee Beyer Community Development Fund, a fund created to carry forward the spirit of a woman who gave so much to her community.
Renee Beyer was more than a planner by title. She was a connector by nature. As Lewis County’s senior planner and a graduate of the inaugural Lewis County Leadership Academy, she believed in the power of people working together to make their hometowns stronger. After her passing in 2013, her family, friends, and neighbors came together to honor her legacy by creating a fund that would continue her life’s work: supporting grassroots projects that reflect compassion, collaboration, and community pride.
This year marks a special milestone, the very first grants to be awarded from the fund. A volunteer committee of Lewis County residents, including members of Renee’s family, reviewed applications and selected three projects that embody her values and her enduring love for the North Country.
Earlier this month, Renee’s daughter, Kelsey Beyer, visited each of the three sites to personally present the inaugural awards, connecting with those who are turning her mother’s vision into action.
2025 Grant Recipients
Society for the Preservation of the West Martinsburg Church — $1,500
Funds will support construction of a handicapped-accessible ramp at the historic church, helping ensure that everyone—regardless of mobility—can take part in events and community gatherings at this cherished landmark.
Lewis County Agricultural Society — $4,500
The Agricultural Society will use its grant for beautification of the Lewis County Fairgrounds in Lowville—a space that was dear to Renee’s heart and continues to bring generations together each summer.
Naturally Lewis — $2,500
This award will provide scholarships for emerging small-business owners to participate in the Lewis County Leadership Academy, nurturing the next generation of local leaders who share Renee’s belief in giving back.
The Renee Beyer Community Development Fund, established in 2013 and held at the Northern New York Community Foundation, supports community-led projects that promote revitalization, leadership, and civic engagement across Lewis County.
Each grant awarded this year is a reminder that when neighbors come together, incredible things can happen, just as Renee always believed.
United is the way.
