M1 Awards $18,750 to AYA Youth Collective

Members First Credit Union (M1) is proud to announce it will award $15,000 in grant funds to AYA Youth Collective via the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis’ Community Multiplier – Member Match program. By contributing $3,750, M1 unlocked a 4-to-1 match from FHLBank Indianapolis, resulting in a total investment of $18,750 to fund AYA Youth Collective services that give young adults safe, affordable housing and ongoing care to transition out of crisis.

Affordable housing is only successful when residents have the support needed to maintain it. This grant enables AYA to deliver critical guidance and resources to young adults in Grand Rapids, ensuring they have the tools to overcome underlying housing barriers and sustain long-term tenancy.

Members First Credit Union CEO, Carrie Iafrate, celebrates this partnership, “Investing in the well-being and stability of the next generation is one of the most powerful ways we can strengthen our communities. Through our partnership with FHLBank Indianapolis, we are honored to support AYA Youth Collective as they equip young adults with essential housing resources, compassionate guidance, and a clear path toward lasting independence.”

“These gifts will help 39 young people ages 18 to 24 secure and keep stable housing," said Lauren Gamelin VanKeulen, Co-Founder and CEO of AYA Youth Collective. "Through case management, mental health services, workforce development, financial literacy, and other supports, youth can address the barriers that put their housing at risk and move beyond crisis toward long-term stability. When young people stay housed, they have a foundation to pursue education, employment, and personal growth. That strengthens the housing where they live and the Grand Rapids community as a whole. We're grateful to Members First Credit Union and FHLBank Indianapolis for helping us create communities rooted in belonging, where youth can own their future.”