Community Foundation for Western Iowa Grants $10,000 to Vision Atlantic

Donna Dostal, President & CEO of the Community Foundation for Western Iowa, expressed gratitude to the hundreds of donors, stating, “Thanks to their generosity and vision, the Women’s Fund of SW Iowa is positioned to provide essential funding for projects that significantly affect the lives of women and their families. We are excited to support this transformative community effort to enhance access to affordable, quality childcare for families in Atlantic and the neighboring areas. On behalf of the Women’s Fund granting committee and our Board of Directors, we congratulate the Child Development Center and anticipate the positive impact this valuable resource will have on the residents of Atlantic.”

The Lakin Foundation Child Development Center in the Camblin Hills Housing Development is designed to accommodate up to 300 children. It includes Jack & Jill Preschool, operated by the Nishna Valley Family YMCA. The center will feature spacious rooms, an indoor play area, and a large outdoor playground. Pricing details and reservations have not yet been finalized.

“Childcare is crucial for young families when deciding where to settle down,” said Christina Bateman, President of Vision Atlantic. “This generous funding from the Community Foundation for Western Iowa addresses a pressing need in our community, supports economic growth, and makes Atlantic a more inviting place to live.”

Vision Atlantic’s comprehensive project focuses on three priority areas identified through community research: expanded childcare, quality housing, and improved quality of life. Infrastructure work at the Camblin Hills Housing Development is underway, with the construction of homes and the child development center expected to commence this summer. Meanwhile, the YMCA expansion is scheduled to begin construction later this year.

With significant financial backing from the Charles E. Lakin Foundation and local donors, Vision Atlantic has successfully raised $22.9 million toward its $30 million goal over the past 14 months. In addition to an $8.6 million grant from the Lakin Foundation, Vision Atlantic has secured an additional $23 million from the Foundation as a line of credit to facilitate the construction of homes in the Camblin Hills Housing Development. As these funds are paid back each year, the Foundation will donate up to 5% of the repaid interest back to Vision Atlantic to support the operation of the child development center. This $23 million is separate from Vision Atlantic’s $30 million goal.

The organization is actively pursuing additional funding to reach this target. For contributions or volunteering opportunities, please contact visionatlanticiowa@gmail.com or visit www.visionatlantic.org. To stay updated on project developments, follow Vision Atlantic on Facebook.

Vision Atlantic is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering growth, enhancing lives, and collectively building a vibrant community through the economic development of Atlantic, Iowa.