RMCU Awards $34,297 to the Dream Big Foundation
Read Time 4 mins | Written by: Kelly Fleiner
NEWS Release
Grant program supports affordable housing and community and community development initiatives
Rocky Mountain Credit Union (RMCU), in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines or Bank), today announced that the Colt Anderson Dream Big Foundation will receive a $34,297 grant through the Member Impact Fund. This matching grant program is designed to amplify the community engagement of FHLB Des Moines member institutions that support local housing, business, and economic needs.
In Montana, 287 applications received funding through partnerships with 41 member institutions. FHLB Des Moines matched more than $2.40 for every $1 contributed by a member institution, resulting in $1.6 million from members and $4 million awarded by FHLB Des Moines.
“We are so proud to support the Colt Anderson Dream Big Foundation. RMCU has a shared vision of supporting positive change in the youth of our communities by providing opportunities to ‘Dream Big,’ through our partnership with Federal Home Loan Bank. Thanks to RMCU’s Member Impact Fund application, we’re delivering a total award of $34,297 to the Dream Big Foundation. This is made possible by RMCU’s $10,000 contribution and a $24,297 match from FHLB. This is exactly the kind of community investment that drives everything we do. At RMCU, people will always come before profits, and partnerships like this one show what’s possible when we put our members’ values into action.” Erin Johnston, Interim CEO, Rocky Mountain Credit Union
Rocky Mountain Credit Union has been a proud partner of the Colt Anderson Dream Big Foundation. Together, they are dedicated to improving their community through youth development, skills education, and economic opportunity.
Grant funds will support two key initiatives of the Foundation. The Dream Big Drive for Success Program, developed in partnership with Butte Auto, establishes school pantry programs providing essential food and hygiene items to students in need — ensuring that every student has access to basic necessities and that educators are relieved of the personal expense of supplying their classrooms. In addition, the Foundation’s Skills Camp Scholarship Program provides grants for qualifying K–12 families who lack the resources to pay for youth activities, covering registration, equipment, and associated fees for classes, leagues, and travel. The Foundation’s 2026 Uptop Skills Camp is scheduled for June 25–26.
“The Dream Big Foundation was created to support children and families throughout our community in any way we can. From scholarships and opportunities for youth activities, to hosting free camps and events, to responding to needs within our schools, our mission has always been centered around making sure kids feel supported, encouraged, and cared for. We are especially grateful because Rocky Mountain Credit Union’s grant includes a major partnership with the Dream Big Pantry Program — one of the programs that is impacting students and families every single day. Your generosity is helping strengthen the future of this program and allowing us to continue expanding it in meaningful ways. We truly believe this partnership is going to make a lasting difference, and we are so thankful for RMCU’s willingness to step up for local kids and families in such a big way.” Keelie Anderson, Dream Big Foundation
“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 chief executive officer 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.”
Since its launch in 2023, the Member Impact Fund has provided more than $86 million in grants from FHLB Des Moines, generating over $119 million in combined support for affordable housing and community development. Notably, every eligible application submitted to the program has received funding, reflecting the Bank’s strong commitment to partnership and impact.
About Rocky Mountain Credit Union
Rocky Mountain Credit Union of Montana (RMCU) is a not-for-profit financial cooperative in southwest Montana that is owned by its members. RMCU serves more than 24,000 members who live, work, or worship in our chartered areas.
About Colt Anderson Dream Big Foundation
The Colt Anderson Dream Big Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to creating positive change in the lives of young people. The Foundation provides resources, opportunities, and experiences that empower youth to discover their passions, believe in themselves, and dream big. Through exposure, experiences, and meaningful mentorship, the Foundation strives to motivate youth to find what drives them and pursue it with confidence — giving every child the opportunity to dream big and succeed. For more information, visit dreambigmontana.com.
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, please visit www.fhlbdm.com.
Contact
Kelly Fleiner, VP of Brand & Community Engagement
406.582.6626
kfleiner@rmcu.net
FHLB Des Moines Contact
Rachel Wegmann, Public Relations Manager
515.412.2357
RWegmann@fhlbdm.com
Kelly Fleiner
Kelly Fleiner, CUBDP is the Vice President of Brand and Community Engagement at Rocky Mountain Credit Union, where she leads marketing, public relations, and community impact initiatives rooted in Montana values. A strategic storyteller and culture champion, Kelly blends data-driven insight with people-first leadership to strengthen brands, empower teams, and deepen community connections. She is passionate about elevating the credit union movement through bold ideas, meaningful partnerships, and authentic engagement.