HAGÅTÑA, Guam (BoG) — Bank of Guam, in partnership with Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, is pleased to announce that three local organizations have received a total of $122,500 in grants through the FHLB Des Moines Member Impact Fund.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening our island, supporting children in need, expanding opportunities for our youth, and empowering organizations that are deeply rooted in our community.
“Every investment we make is ultimately an investment in our people. Through our partnership with FHLB, we’re able to support our local organizations doing the real, everyday work of caring for our children, uplifting our communities, and creating opportunities for the next generation. We’re grateful for partners like these who uphold our same commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities,” said Joaquin P.L.G. Cook, Bank of Guam president and chief executive officer.
I Guma Mina’åse’ or IGM, a program of the Guam Department of Public Health & Social Services, will receive $52,500, supported by Bank of Guam’s $15,000 contribution, to provide home-like care for children in Child Protective Services custody. With support from the Member Impact Fund, IGM will continue to meet essential needs, from beds and meals to enrichment and life skills, helping each child feel safe, supported, and cared for.
“At the Division of Children’s Wellness, we often say it takes a village to raise a child, but for children who have abuse, neglect, uncertainty, and heartbreak, it takes the kind of partner who leads with compassion and love. We offer our deepest gratitude to the Bank of Guam for standing beside I Guma Mina’åse’ and, more importantly, for standing beside the children who call it home. Because of Bank of Guam’s generous support, “home” becomes so much more than four walls. It becomes a warm bed after a long and difficult day. A nourishing meal when a child is hungry not just for food, but for care. Art supplies and activities that give little hands the chance to create, imagine, and dream again,” said Heidi J. Quinata, chief children’s services administrator, Division of Children’s Wellness.
Inspire Marianas, dedicated to uplifting our islands, will receive $52,500, supported by Bank of Guam’s $15,000 contribution. In partnership with CLUTCH Guam and support from the Member Impact Fund, this initiative will bring essential sports equipment to village gyms, creating safe, active spaces for youth across Guam, especially in underserved communities.
“Inspire Marianas is extremely grateful to Bank of Guam and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines for their generous support and commitment to our island. This investment helps provide sports equipment for our youth, creating opportunities to stay active, build confidence, and connect through community. By supporting our villages, we’re bringing people together, strengthening families, and improving our island—building a healthier, more united Guam for generations to come,” said Victor Calvo, president, Inspire Marianas.
Through cultural expression and mentorship, Inetnon Gefpå’go’s mission is to support the island’s youth and strengthen our community. Inetnon Gefpå’go will receive $17,500, supported by Bank of Guam’s $5,000 contribution. The Member Impact Fund will help cover costs associated with the Uritao Mentorship Program, including coordination, space, and materials, reducing barriers for families and expanding access for youth across Guam.
“On behalf of the thousands of youth I have had the privilege to serve over the past 25 years, I am deeply honored to partner with the Bank of Guam in creating opportunities that empower the creative expressions of our youth to celebrate who we are, carry our culture forward, and contribute to the healing and strengthening of our island community. I am truly grateful and excited for what lies ahead as we continue this journey together,” said Vince Reyes creative director and founder, Inetnon Gefpa’go Cultural Arts Program.
This matching grant program will result in FHLB Des Moines awarding over $12.9 million in funding to support affordable housing and community development in Alaska, South Dakota, Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.
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.
“The Member Impact Fund is designed to help our members champion the organizations that make a real difference in their communities. 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,” said Kris Williams, president and CEO of FHLB Des Moines.
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.
This member matching grant program is part of FHLB Des Moines’ ongoing mission to offer a variety of funding options through its members.
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.
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, visit www.fhlbdm.com/.
