Lake Crystal Area Recreation Center receives $24,000 grant from Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines and Pioneer Bank through the Member Impact Fund

Pioneer Bank, in partnership with Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines), is pleased to announce that Lake Crystal Area Recreation Center will receive a $24,000 grant from the FHLB Des Moines Member Impact Fund. This matching grant program, which was introduced in 2023, will provide nearly $12 million to eligible Minnesota organizations in order to strengthen communities in targeted areas of FHLB Des Moines’ district.

“With this funding, we can expand access to health and fitness opportunities for local youth who need it most,” said Ryan Yunkers, Executive Director of Lake Crystal Area Recreation Center. “We’re thankful to Pioneer Bank and FHLB Des Moines for helping us grow our impact in the community.”

The grant will support the growth of youth recreation, the LCARC is planning a 2,200-square-foot expansion that will include a large indoor play structure with accessible ground-level features. This new space will offer additional recreational opportunities for both members and non-members, enhancing the experience for children and families who use the center.

“Lake Crystal Area Rec Center plays a vital role in the well-being of our youth and families,” said Alissa Brekke, Market President of Pioneer Bank in North Mankato. “It’s rewarding to help bring resources to programs that nurture health and growth.”

FHLB Des Moines provides funding solutions to more than 1,200 members to support mortgage lending, economic development and affordable housing in the communities they serve. The Member Impact Fund provides FHLB Des Moines members up to $3 for every $1 in matching grant donations to strengthen the ability of not-for-profits or government entities to support the needs of their communities.

The Member Impact Fund is part of FHLB Des Moines’ ongoing mission to offer a variety of funding options through its members to support affordable housing and community development needs. Kris Williams, President and CEO of FHLB Des Moines, shares, “We are thrilled to see grants from our Member Impact Fund having a direct, positive impact on the communities in which our members help advance affordable housing and community development needs in a meaningful way.”

Recipient organizations were selected based on the needs for grant funding to support capacity-building or working capital necessary to strengthen their ability to serve affordable housing or community development needs including job training, affordable housing, financial literacy, food banks and youth programs.

Since its founding in 2023, the Member Impact Fund has supported affordable housing and community development with nearly $70 million in grants awarded by FHLB Des Moines. Member institutions apply and receive Member Impact Fund matching grants to be distributed to eligible organizations alongside their own grant contribution.