Celebrating Impact at the Gratitude Bruncheon

The Gratitude Bruncheon is our special award brunch that honors our most dedicated supporters and volunteers of the year. Hundreds of friends of The Children’s Place join us each year for this special brunch culminating in an award ceremony honoring so many generous individuals and groups who have made an impact for The Children’s Place.

The 2026 Gratitude Bruncheon took place on August 27, 2026. Join us in celebrating the honorees of the 2026 Gratitude Bruncheon!

Presented By

Patty & Don Kincaid

2026 Gratitude Bruncheon Honorees

Brad Johnson & Family

Legacy Award

Former board member Brad Johnson and his family have remained generous supporters and advocates for The Children’s Place, most recently donating to help cover the costs to support Duo Dog Coleman and his two staff trainers.

Christina Puckett

Community Impact Award

Kids in Christ Academy Executive Director Christina Puckett has been an enthusiastic partner for our new program, The Children’s Place on Wheels. As one of our first host sites, she has helped recruit more early education centers by spreading the word about the impact she is seeing at her center.

Jae Gray

Volunteer of the Year

Ever since seeing the impact of The Children’s Place as a foster care case manager, Jae Gray has leaned in as a passionate supporter and volunteer, currently co-chairing our Young Ambassador Board and serving their fourth term.

Susan Jones

Advocate for Hope

With more than two decades working with the Community Mental Health Fund, Susan Jones has been a vital asset to The Children’s Place, maximizing the impact in our community as a funder and advocate for the children and families we serve.

Commerce Bank

Champions of Philanthropy

Commerce Bank has been a loyal supporter of The Children’s Place since the 1970s. Since then, the Bank and various foundations for which it serves as trustee have contributed more than $2 million combined. Beyond their generous financial support, Commerce employees have also made a lasting impact through service, with representatives currently serving on three of our volunteer boards.

Quinton Smith

Emerging Philanthropist of the Year

15-year-old Quinton Smith channels his 3D printing talents for good, donating proceeds and the printed items themselves to adorn the backpacks of the children we serve and created fidgets for therapeutic purposes.