A Letter to the Community:
When I joined Naturally Lewis in 2020, I wrote a profile about why I was coming home to Lewis County and what I hoped to accomplish. Looking back now, it’s a little ironic — I set out to support local businesses, strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and develop programs to support our local economy. While the work of economic development is never “done,” it’s been incredibly rewarding to see how much progress our community has made over the past six years.
It is bittersweet news that I will be transitioning out of my role as Programs and Partnerships Director with Naturally Lewis in April 2026.
I’ve had the privilege of working alongside an incredible network of entrepreneurs, organizations, community leaders, and partners who care deeply about the future of our region. Together, we’ve strengthened the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Lewis County — building programs, partnerships, and networks that help businesses access funding, education, services, and connections to start and grow.
Along the way, we’ve seen exciting momentum: storefronts filling, new businesses emerging in smaller communities, and collaboration becoming second nature among the people working to make this place thrive. Economic development is never about one project or one person — it’s about relationships, collaboration, and the belief that small communities can do big things when people work together.
Working so closely with local businesses reinforced something I’ve always believed: strong local businesses are the backbone of strong communities. I’m proud of the progress our community continues to make and grateful for every connection, every business, and every story that has been part of this journey.
This perspective ultimately led me to my next chapter. I’ll be joining my family’s business, Keystone Lumber and Building Supply. I’m grateful for the opportunity to remain in Lewis County and look forward to continuing to be part of the community in a new way.
Thank you for the opportunity to be part of the Lewis County story — here’s to the next chapter.
With appreciation,
Jenna Lauraine