Filed under "Media Coverage"
More articles »
Central Iowa Water Trails Nears Fundraising Goal with $1M Pledge from Federation Member Athene
Tuesday, May 11, 2021The Central Iowa Water Trails project has reached 75% of its $35 million fundraising goal thanks to a $1 million pledge from Federation of Iowa Insurers member Athene USA. The project will convert more than 150 miles of area creeks and rivers into a tourist destination for kayakers, bicyclists, hikers, birdwatchers and other outdoor enthusiasts. The Des Moines Register’s Kim Norvell reports that Athene’s gift will go toward restoring streambanks, habitat, and other improvements at four downtown Des Moines sites. Her story quotes a written statement by Athene USA President and CEO Grant Kvalheim.
“‘Athene is committed to corporate social responsibility practices in the communities where we live and work…Environmental stewardship is a key component of our corporate social responsibility initiatives and something we have incorporated into our West Des Moines campus via wetland restoration, water conservation, and conscious landscaping. This donation is a natural extension to support similar efforts across our community.’”
The Register reports that the project’s total cost will be an estimated $117 million, funded with federal and state money along with private donations. The project’s funding is handled through the Great Outdoors Foundation. In a quote published by the Des Moines Business Record Great Outdoors Foundation CEO Hannah Inman said, “The most effective strategy for moving the needle on water quality is through collaboration and community buy-in…Support from partners like Athene demonstrates the value and priority our region is placing on improving our water.”