Columbia Insurance, in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB), awarded five grants designed to strengthen Missouri communities. Thanks to Columbia's seed donations and matching grants provided by FHLB, a combined total of $102,000 will support the missions of the Columbia Center for Urban Agriculture (CCUA), First Chance for Children, Heart of Missouri United Way, Job Point and The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri.

"We put our people first by asking employees what matters most to them and directing our support to those causes," said Claire Owen, vice president, general counsel and business support services. "Employees consistently identify support for children, teens and veterans, as well as efforts to address food insecurity as priorities, making these organizations a natural fit."

Since Columbia supports more than 30 nonprofits annually across its 14-state footprint, the company also considered where teammates are already making an impact with their time. "We chose to support nonprofits our teammates are already serving through volunteer and leadership roles," Owen said. "It's one way we can recognize their commitment to strengthening the communities we serve every day."

The Member Impact Fund showcases FHLB's commitment to helping member institutions maximize their local impact. “As a company founded in Missouri, we're proud to invest in organizations that make our local communities stronger,” said Todd Ruthruff, Columbia's president and CEO. “By partnering with FHLB Des Moines, we were able to extend our impact and support nonprofits addressing critical needs across the state.”

In Missouri, 956 applications received funding through partnerships with 174 member institutions. FHLB matched $3 for every $1 contributed by a member institution, resulting in $19.4 million in grants from FHLB Des Moines. “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.”

A commitment to strong communities is central to Columbia's people-first approach. See how it comes to life in the two-minute Personality of Columbia Insurance video.