In a powerful example of community partnership, Members First Credit Union (M1) has secured a $125,000 matching grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (FHLBank Indianapolis) for AYA Youth Collective (AYA), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth experiencing housing instability in West Michigan.
The funding was awarded through FHLBank Indianapolis’s Community Multiplier – Member Match Program. By contributing $12,500, M1 unlocked a 10-to-1 match from the bank, resulting in a total investment of $137,500 to support AYA’s drop-in center, wraparound care and housing programs at a pivotal time.
“We’ve always believed in AYA’s mission and the incredible impact they have on young lives. They are a vital resource in our community,” said Carrie Iafrate, President and CEO of Members First Credit Union. “When the call came, we didn’t hesitate. We are honored to have collaborated with AYA and FHLBI to elevate impact.”
The grant was among the first of its kind from FHLBank Indianapolis focused on operational support. Within just 10 days, the Community Multiplier funds were fully deployed – AYA secured theirs just in time. The grant is now helping sustain vital, life-changing services such as mental health care, transportation, meals, job support, and transitional housing.
According to AYA, their drop-in center serves nearly 1,000 youth annually, and their housing programs maintain a 90% success rate in helping young people achieve long-term stability.
“This isn’t just a grant,” said Lauren Gamelin VanKeulen, CEO and Co-Founder of AYA Youth Collective. “It’s the kind of support that gives us the room to keep walking alongside our youth, meeting their needs today and helping them build a stronger tomorrow. Members First stepped in as a true partner—and together, we’re creating stability, dignity, and opportunity.”