How a $125K Grant is Helping Us Build More Attainable Homes (And Why It Matters)

Attainable housing starts with a vision, but it’s funding that turns that vision into a place to call "home".

At Community Catalysts, we get asked how attainable housing projects actually come together. The short answer? Creative financing. The long answer includes local partnerships, shared enthusiasm, and knowing how to spot opportunities that can change the game.

One of those amazing opportunities came earlier this year, and it’s a perfect example of what’s possible when collaboration meets action.

A New Grant, A New Opportunity

In March 2025, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (FHLBank Indianapolis) launched its newest affordable housing initiative: The Community Multiplier – Member Match program.

This wasn’t your typical grant. To qualify, nonprofits like ours needed a local financial institution willing to contribute a 10% match to the grant request.

In other words, it wasn’t just about applying—it was about building a team.

A Fast YES from a Trusted Partner

As soon as our CEO, Eileen Zilch, read the details, she had one partner in mind: Lake Trust Credit Union.

“They were literally call-blasting me while I was in meetings that day!” Eileen said. “That’s how excited they were to respond and partner with us.”

That kind of enthusiasm to provide funding is rare, and exactly what makes local collaboration so powerful! In just a matter of days, we had submitted our grant application, secured a committed financial match, and were on our way to realizing a shared goal of bringing more attainable housing to Livingston County.

The Impact: $137,500 for Local Housing

Together, we were awarded:

• $125,000 from the FHLBank Indianapolis

• $12,500 from Lake Trust Credit Union

  
  

That’s $137,500 total! All of these funds will directly support the development of safe, stable, and attainable homes right here in Livingston County.

The warmest thanks to Amanda Huszti-Vickers from Lake Trust, a dedicated member of our Housing Catalysts initiative, who helped champion this effort from the very beginning.

This is What Partnership Looks Like!

It’s easy to talk about partnerships. It’s harder to practice them.

We’re incredibly grateful to work alongside people and organizations who understand the value of attainable housing, and who don’t hesitate to act when there’s an opportunity to help.

This grant is so much more than just funding: it’s a reminder that when we come together with purpose and creativity, we can multiply our impact.

Thank you, Lake Trust Credit Union. Thank you, FHLBank Indianapolis. And thank you to EVERYONE in our community who believes in building a future where housing is attainable for all!

Want to be part of the next big step forward? You can contribute financially, or by donating your time and energy through volunteering, by clicking the links below!