January Local Legend: Mindy Beer
January Local Legend: Mindy Beer (Cottage Grove, Oregon)
Some people never seek recognition.
They simply show up — consistently, quietly, and with heart — for their community.
This month, the Groovin’ in the Grove community came together to honor one of those people. Mindy Beer was voted January’s Local Legend for her decades of compassion, generosity, and lasting impact in Cottage Grove, Oregon.
A lifelong resident, community builder, and co-founder of a trusted local giving network, Mindy’s story is one of deep roots, service, and a belief that small acts of kindness can truly change lives.
Can you share a little about yourself and your connection to Cottage Grove?
“My name is Mindy Beer. I’ve lived in Cottage Grove for over 50 years. I’ve watched our town grow and change, but it’s always been a beautiful place to live. My children and grandchildren were born here, and they are all still living in Cottage Grove. It is their hometown, and they love it too.”
When you found out you were chosen as a Local Legend, what was your first reaction?
“I’m honored to be chosen and a bit overwhelmed. There are so many wonderful people who live here and contribute to our community that deserve recognition.”
What’s something about you that most people might not know?
“What most people don’t know about me is that I love woodworking and am a pretty good carpenter and handyman. I’ve been remodeling my home, which was built in the 1940s, and updating it after work and in between managing my Facebook page.”
What work, role, or cause in Cottage Grove matters most to you?
“My daughter, Jennifer Crosby, and I created Pay It Forward Cottage Grove Oregon over eleven years ago. It’s a local Facebook page that is donate-or-trade only, and over the years it has grown tremendously.
We’ve built one of the most loving, sharing communities anyone could ask for, and I’m incredibly proud to be a part of such a wonderful group of people.”
Are there any people, groups, or organizations you’d like to recognize or thank?
“There are so many groups and organizations in town that deserve recognition and praise. I’ve come into contact with almost every business and organization in Cottage Grove and have visited many of the newer businesses.
I especially love Main Street — the recent improvements will boost visibility to some of the most wonderful businesses a town could have.
I’d like to give a special shout-out to Homestead Furniture. They’ve donated hundreds of mattresses and pieces of furniture that we’ve been able to pass along to the community for free. They’ve truly made a difference.
And to all the nonprofits and churches volunteering their time to help less fortunate members of our community — you’re rocking it.”
Is there a moment or experience that really captures what Cottage Grove means to you?
“I’ve seen some amazing things happen in Cottage Grove when we all work together. Sometimes it’s just the little things people need help with — those moments can brighten someone’s day and make life a little easier.”
Is there anything you’d like to say directly to the Cottage Grove community?
“Thank you, Austin Hall, for giving me the chance to tell my story and help make the community aware that there is help available in Cottage Grove. Together, we make a difference.”
Why the Community Chose Mindy Beer
Mindy Beer was chosen as January’s Local Legend because of her unwavering commitment to helping others, her role in building a trusted community resource, and the quiet compassion she brings to Cottage Grove every day. Through years of service, generosity, and leadership by example, Mindy has shown what it truly means to lead with heart.
This is what a Local Legend looks like — not a title or a spotlight, but a lifetime of showing up when it matters most.
