BankWest Kennebec and FHLB, award $35,000 to American Legion

BankWest, in partnership with FHLB Des Moines, is pleased to announce that the Johnson-Peterson American Legion Post has received $35,000 in grant funding from the Member Impact Fund.

BankWest Kennebec and FHLB, award $35,000 to American Legion

BankWest, in partnership with FHLB Des Moines, is pleased to announce that the Johnson-Peterson American Legion Post has received $35,000 in grant funding from the Member Impact Fund.
BankWest, in partnership with Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines), is pleased to announce that the Johnson-Peterson American Legion Post has received $35,000 in grant funding from the Member Impact Fund. This matching grant program will result in BankWest and FHLB Des Moines awarding $700,000 in funding to support affordable housing and community development in South Dakota communities.

BankWest applied for and received matching grant funds for the American Legion to add a dehumidifier system to their building, update the furnace, and provide funding for monthly community meals, which are free to attendees.

“At BankWest, supporting our communities means partnering with organizations that bring people together and make a meaningful local impact,” said Dustin McIntosh, Branch Manager at BankWest. “The Johnson‑Peterson American Legion Post plays an important role in our area by providing a gathering place and offering free community meals. This funding will help ensure their facility remains safe, functional and welcoming, and we’re proud to work with FHLB Des Moines to support efforts that strengthen community connections.”

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 matching grant donations to strengthen the ability of not-for-profits or government entities to support the needs of their communities.

“This grant will make a real difference for our post and for the community members who rely on it,” said Charlie Hamer. “The improvements to our building, along with support for our monthly community meals, help us continue serving as a place where people can come together. We’re incredibly grateful to BankWest and FHLB Des Moines for investing in our mission and recognizing the value of rural community organizations.”

“The Member Impact Fund is designed to help our members champion the organizations that make a real difference in their communities,” said Kris Williams, president and CEO of FHLB Des Moines. “By partnering with our members, we’re able to multiply resources and support their vital work as they continue to strengthen opportunities for the people they serve.”

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 launch in 2023, the Member Impact Fund has provided more than $83 million in grants from FHLB Des Moines, generating over $113 million in combined support for affordable housing and community development. Notably, every eligible application submitted to the program has received funding—reflecting the organization’s strong commitment to partnership and impact.