FAST FIVE Laura Beyer: Communication, camaraderie and cookies!

Meet Laura Beyer, the director of marketing and development for Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy. Laura also serves on the board for Kootenai County Young Professionals. She was recently named one of Kootenai County’s Top 30 Under 40, is a graduate of the Leadership Coeur d’Alene Class of 2021 (best class ever!) and tries to make a positive impact on her community.

In her free time, Laura enjoys baking, traveling — she aims to visit all 50 states and as many national parks as possible! — and spending quality time with family and friends.

1) How are things going with Kootenai County Young Professionals these days?

Things are great! We just welcomed our new 2025 board of directors, and I’m thrilled to step into the role of vice president this year alongside our president, Mary Moses. We have an incredible team with some exciting plans in the works, and I can already tell this is going to be a fantastic year. It’s also amazing to see our organization continue to grow — we’re building something really special! 

2) What exactly is this organization — what do you do and what are some of your events?

Kootenai County Young Professionals is all about building connections, growing professionally and giving back to our community. While "young" is in our name, we welcome professionals of all ages! We host at least one event every month, plus a few extras throughout the year, and most of our events have a philanthropic focus, featuring a local nonprofit in some way. 

Beyond networking, we’re passionate about giving back. Each year we pick up trash on Tubbs Hill, and in the fall we host Woodstock, a wood-chopping competition where we split logs and donate firewood to local seniors. Our biggest event of the year, Elevate, happens every January, celebrating Kootenai County’s Top 30 Under 40!

If you're looking to grow your network, support local nonprofits and have fun doing it, KCYP is the place to be!

3) Why should a young professional be interested in joining this group?

KCYP is all about connection — whether that’s meeting new people, growing professionally or finding ways to give back to the community. It’s a great way for young professionals to expand their network, learn from experienced leaders and get involved in something bigger than just their day-to-day job. Plus, the events are fun, the people are welcoming and you never know what opportunities might come from just showing up.

If you want to learn more about KCYP, visit kcyp.org or find us on Facebook or Instagram. We would love to see you at a future event!

4) What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

Most people would probably be surprised to learn that I have a ham radio license that I earned back in middle school. I haven't used it in years, but also never plan to let it go. I have also won a handful of ribbons for baked goods at the North Idaho State Fair over the years, including Top Cookie! I love to bake!

5) What are a few pointers you have for young people to be more successful in their chosen career paths?

Build your network and make connections. You never know how your network may be able to help you in the future — from job opportunities to mentorship and more!

Take initiative. Look for ways to contribute, take on new challenges and show your value to your organization.

Get involved in the community! We have an amazing community with so many wonderful people and so many opportunities. Get involved and find where you can fit in!