2025 FHLB Member Impact Fund Grant Program Awards

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB) is dedicated to enhancing communities, serving 13 states and three U.S. Pacific territories as a member-owned cooperative. They collaborate with over 1,200 member institutions to promote affordable housing, economic growth, and community development.
FHLB Des Moines is one of 11 regional banks that form the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Our members consist of community and commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, thrifts, and community development financial institutions.
21st Century Bank proudly acknowledges the following Member Impact Award funding recipients who partner with us to help our communities flourish. We are committed to fostering positive change and making a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve. By working together with our valued partners, we strive to create opportunities for success and growth. Our collaboration with these esteemed organizations exemplifies our dedication to building a brighter future for all.

Achieve Services is driven by core values of enrichment, empowerment, innovation, and integrity, aiming to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities through work opportunities. Their mission emphasizes income generation to enable personal choices. John Bennett, SVP, Business Development/Nonprofit Banking /21st Century Bank serves on the Board and actively seeks growth for the Community-Based Employment Program, focusing on participants’ overall well-being.


21st Century Bank is proud to contribute to Bolder Options we believe that youth mentoring weekly is key to the personal, and someday professional development. Funds from this program will greatly enhance the reach of this organizations efforts in assisting children and clearing a defined pathway from middle school through secondary education. Bolder Options mentoring programs and exposure to possibilities outside of child’s current situation provides a safe, secure and proven model for success.


We inspire community generosity in support of Como Zoo and Conservancy so it thrives for generations to come. Several educational programs offered to learn how plants are used in products we consume and dive into the vibrant world of ecosystems with their interactive programs.
Como Connections are virtual visits to the Zoo for teachers to educate their students. John Bennett, 21st Century Bank is on their Development Committee, and a supporter of 15+ years.

HOPE4Youth provides basic daily needs to youth in the community who need resources to survive. These youth live on the streets of Anoka. The food, clothing, and hygiene items enable these youth to continue attending school. They partner with several local resources to ensure that each child who comes to their door has a warm, safe place to sleep. 21st Century Bank employees donate collected items, and attend fundraising events, Darkest Night, Gala/Golf. 21st Century Bank has/is a sponsor of these events.


Lewis Sports’ mission is to connect with students who historically and statistically show lower academic achievement, graduation rates, and postsecondary success. It’s challenging for students to navigate the pressures of school and responsibilities. The mentorship, the Academic Coach Program, and the Lifeskills Training are ways that foster a better outcome for these youth. John Bennett, 21st Century Bank, Leo Lewis, Board of Directors/supporters for years. 21st Century Bank makes financial donations.


People Serving People, Inc. aims to support families facing housing instability through shelter, early childhood education, and housing stabilization. Partnering with John Bennett from 21st Century Bank, they address the root causes of homelessness and promote long-term self-sufficiency. Their approach not only meets immediate needs but also fosters resilience and hope, ensuring families can thrive in a safe environment and break the cycle of poverty.

While the full impact of war on individual veterans may be immeasurable, the Magnus Veterans Foundation is dedicated to honoring veterans by supporting their healing and recovery. They provide vital resources to help veterans and their families navigate the complex transition from military service to civilian life. Receiving a Member Impact Fund award will enable Magnus to expand its facilities, improving the delivery of its five core services—medical, physical, psychological, spiritual, and social well-being—to as many as 3,000 veterans and their families. This expansion will directly strengthen their ability to support veterans’ successful integration into the community.

Saint Paul Parks Conservancy envisions a city with equitable access to exceptional green spaces that foster joy and inclusivity. John Bennett, an active Board Member, supports the Conservancy’s commitment to community engagement, ensuring parks serve as vibrant recreational and cultural hubs. Collaborating with local partners, they strive to improve facilities, enhance accessibility, and promote environmental stewardship, benefiting residents’ quality of life and the city’s ecological health. Through innovative projects, the Conservancy is creating a greener, more connected future for all citizens.

Huge congratulations to WomenVenture on receiving the FHLB Member Impact Award, partnered with 21st Century Bank! This well-deserved recognition celebrates their unwavering commitment to empowering women through entrepreneurial training, lending programs, and comprehensive business services. This additional funding will undoubtedly amplify their reach, allowing them to provide even more in-depth training, expand vital loan opportunities, and offer extensive consulting to more women, ultimately building stronger businesses and a more equitable future.


Congratulations to Youthprise, a recipient of the FHLB Member Impact Award, in partnership with 21st Century Bank! This incredible grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines will provide vital support for Youthprise’s year-round nutrition program, which serves daily meals to over 5,000 diverse young people in our community! We’re honored to support organizations like Youthprise that are making such a significant difference in community development!
Youthprise’s mission is to help youth of the community with their overall well-being. Nutrition Program’s goal is to provide good healthy food outside of the school hours to this population. John Bennett, 21st Century Bank works closely with Youthprise as an financial and development advisor.

