Leading the Way for Women With the YWCA.

A Space to Be Safe, a Place to Feel Loved.

We’ve been a longtime supporter of YWCA Cass Clay, helping the nonprofit build an economic enrichment wing in 2015 and transitional housing in 2010. To this day, we've also had multiple team members serve on its board of directors. The bank’s donation of $1.5 million was the largest in YWCA’s history.

“Gate City Bank believes in creating a better way of life for those who help shape our communities,” says Amanda Torok, Senior Vice President of Culture. “Mothers and their children definitely fit that description, and we’re so thankful to be able to provide the resources needed to help YWCA Cass Clay with this project.”

The bank’s donation toward the more than $7 million project helped cover startup costs, as well as Grace Garden’s supportive service program expenses from 2019 to 2029. This funding brings essential onsite advocacy and guidance to women as they overcome the following barriers, which often lead to repeat hardships:

• Transportation

• Employment

• Education

• Finances

• Health

Individuals in these difficult circumstances have often also experienced trouble escaping debt, securing childcare, saving up money for an apartment deposit and getting to a living wage, among other things. Recovering from all this can take years.

Amplifying the Mission With a Match.

To further promote safe housing through YWCA Cass Clay and Grace Garden, Gate City Bank also engaged in a unique grant-matching program, where Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines) contributed $3 for every $1 donated by us. We’re proud to say that this beautiful collaboration led to a $560,000 boost for the nonprofit!

The extra funds were used to make crucial technological upgrades for Grace Garden’s security cameras and supporting digital infrastructure, after qualified bank team members had also provided complimentary consulting services. Additionally, the money went toward providing vicarious trauma training for YWCA Cass Clay’s staff members, many of whom witness traumatizing circumstances through their work every day. The gift meant everything to Prochnow and her team.

“We have nothing but absolute gratitude for the continued partnership and steadfast support from Gate City Bank. This was no small investment, and it’s having a significant impact on our organization and mission,” Prochnow says. “These dollars are helping to keep our women and children secure and relieved of fear, which in turn is creating peace of mind – and a better way of life.”