Top Row: David Emley, Kalinda Calkins, Sarah Fox, Phil Bennett.
Bottom Row: Jenna TeKolste, Nina Ward, Paige Chappell, Lindsey Bruns
Not pictured: Charlotte Kemper Black and Aaron Siders
Commerce Bank has been a loyal supporter of The Children’s Place since our inception nearly 50 years ago. 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.
“For 40 years, and across three generations, my family has enjoyed being associated with The Children’s Place and volunteering our time and energies into supporting the activities and mission of the agency,” said David Emley, Senior Vice President of Commercial Banking at Commerce Bank and board member for The Children’s Place. “The strength of the children, their families and the entire staff never ceases to be amazing and being able to watch young lives grow and heal during their time in the agency’s care is inspiring. Supporting their endeavors and helping The Children’s Place expand its impact on our community is deeply rewarding and fulfilling.”
The Commerce Bank team has generously supported The Children’s Place in so many ways over the years, including bringing in teams to host special activities for the children in our Day Treatment program like a spring craft day or painting in our former building.
The Children’s Place is proud to have three Commerce Bank staff members serving on our volunteer boards: David Emley on our Board of Directors, Lindsey Bruns on our Angel Board, and Paige Chappell on our Young Ambassador Board.
“Commerce Bank’s partnership with The Children’s Place has spanned nearly five decades and represents the very best of corporate citizenship,” said Polly Howard, Vice President of Development & Communications at The Children’s Place. “Their extraordinary generosity, volunteerism, and leadership have strengthened our organization and enriched the lives of the children and families we serve. We are incredibly fortunate to have a corporate partner that not only invests in our mission but also gives back to our community in meaningful ways. Through board service, strategic guidance, and hands-on engagement, Commerce Bank continues to lead by example. We are honored to recognize their enduring commitment to creating brighter futures for generations of families.”
The Champions of Philanthropy Award will be awarded at the Gratitude Bruncheon on August 27. Meet the other honorees of Gratitude Bruncheon 2026 here.
