Mapleton, MN (June 12, 2025) – 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.

About Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines is deeply committed to strengthening communities, serving 13 states and three U.S. Pacific territories as a member-owned cooperative. We work together with over 1,200 member institutions to support affordable housing, economic development and community improvement.

FHLB Des Moines is one of 11 regional Banks that make up the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Members include community and commercial banks, credit unions, insurance companies, thrifts and community development financial institutions. FHLB Des Moines is wholly owned by its members and receives no taxpayer funding. For additional information about FHLB Des Moines, please visit www.fhlbdm.com.

About Pioneer Bank
Pioneer Bank is a community bank with seven locations throughout southern Minnesota including Mankato, North Mankato, St. James, St. Peter, Madelia, Mapleton, and Lake Crystal. Pioneer Bank offers expertise in personal, business and agribusiness banking with bankers and staff that provide experience that is unparalleled. Pioneer Bank is very active in the communities they serve and has been a five-time national finalist for the Extraordinary Banking Award, a national organization that marks the excellence for the best banks in America. In addition, Pioneer Bank has been named a Top Workplace in Minnesota by the Star Tribune multiple times. For more information visit www.bankwithpioneer.com. Member FDIC.