Merchants Makes Major Pledges

June 27, 2024

Through two pledges totaling $75,000, Merchants Bonding Company Foundation is proud to support important initiatives sure to enrich the lives of Iowa’s residents and visitors for years to come.

New Artwork Takes Flight at Des Moines Airport

To ensure vibrant and inspiring public art is an integral feature of the new terminal at the Des Moines International Airport, the Foundation pledged $50,000 to the partnership between the Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation and the Des Moines Airport Authority. The artwork will help define and distinguish the facility, convey a positive impression of the dynamic spirit of Des Moines and the state of Iowa, and make flying a more 'uplifting' experience!

Envisioning a New Zoo

The Foundation has also pledged $25,000 to the Blank Park Zoo for expansion and renovation efforts through the “Expand the Impact" capital campaign. The expansion and renovation will create a more inclusive environment through improved accessibility features, and upgraded habitats that prioritize animal well-being. The plans include a new exhibit called 'Wild Iowa' featuring animals native to the state like eagles, bobcats, and otters. The facility will also champion sustainability practices for the future, like the new saltwater habitat for seals and sea lions which will save approximately 25 million gallons of water yearly. 

Blank Park Zoo Habitat

Images from the Merchants Community Outreach Council's tour of the Blank Park Zoo.

Foundation Total Year-to-Date Giving

The Foundation’s year-to-date giving totals $113,358, with donations to a wide variety of organizations including but not limited to; Tech Journey, Des Moines Metro Opera, NAMI Iowa’s Beautiful Minds, and our 2024 focus charity, Gigi’s Playhouse. Selected by Merchants’ Community Outreach Council (COC) as the recipient of this year’s ongoing internal fundraising efforts, their mission is to change the way the world views Down syndrome, and to provide support for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The COC facilitates the company’s financial giving and volunteer efforts, coordinating events to raise money for the focus charity of the year.

Learn more about Merchants Bonding Company Foundation HERE