Volunteerism
At Great Southern Bank, we believe in volunteerism and the impact it has on the overall health of our communities. Our associates' actions reflect our Company's charitable spirit. Our bankers are more than just bankers. They are mentors, spending their lunch hour tutoring second graders; they are board members, offering their leadership and experience to local nonprofit organizations; they are advisors, attending Chamber meetings working to bring more jobs to their town; they are educators, offering tips to seniors of how to safe guard their hard-earned money.
We are proud of our associates and support their efforts to strengthen our communities, making them better places to live, work and do business.
Bill and Ann Turner Distinguished Community Service Award
Great Southern Bank’s annual Bill and Ann Turner Distinguished Community Service Award was created to emphasize the importance placed on volunteerism at Great Southern Bank by honoring one outstanding associate who demonstrates excellence in volunteer service to their community. Associates throughout the Company have the opportunity to nominate coworkers they believe are worthy of this honor. A committee comprised of community leaders review the nominations and select an annual recipient. On the winner’s behalf, Great Southern Bank donates $1,500 to their charity of choice.
2025 Award Recipient: Jennifer Russell
Jennifer Russell is a passionate advocate who brings a rare blend of heart and mind to her volunteer work. Her advocacy for the underprivileged, particularly youth in foster care, and her enthusiastic support for the local community Arts in Springfield, MO, are a testament to her belief that if one person can make a difference, then teamwork can make a bigger difference! Jennifer's confidence and curiosity, coupled with her comprehensive understanding of her strengths and talents, shape her distinctive approach to volunteerism, to help where she can.
As a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), Jennifer has taken on leadership roles, working on multiple cases to support teenagers. Her efforts have included facilitating adoptions and advocating for family reunification. This year, she played a pivotal role in CASA’s initiative to engage more volunteers by developing new recruitment programs and was elected to the CASA Board, further solidifying her valued contribution within the organization.
She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Springfield's local community theatre, where she also previously served on the Associate Board. Her contributions have been recognized through various accolades for her dedication. She plays a key role in organizing fundraising events and diligently works with her peers to achieve success. In addition to her commitment to the theatre, Jennifer mentors new members of the Associate Board interested in volunteerism, helping them discover their passions and providing direction and encouragement to grow the numbers of our community minded leaders.
Her volunteer efforts extend to community organizations like the United Way, where, as a member of the Community Investment Panel, she has helped allocate funding for poverty alleviation programs and local arts initiatives, supporting artists and community engagement in Springfield’s annual Artsfest on historic Walnut Street. Jennifer understands the importance of financial literacy in the classrooms and has served on the Advisory Board and the fundraiser planning committee for Junior Achievement. She has also served on the fundraising committee at Harmony House and worked in the shelter with those receiving refuge.
Jennifer's diverse volunteer experience is a testament to her adaptability and her ability to make a positive impact across various settings, from direct advocacy to mentorship and program development. Her adaptability ensures that she can apply her unique talents to any situation, creating a positive impact wherever she goes.
Jennifer Russell, 2025 Award recipient
Past Distinguished Community Service Award Recipients:
2024 Award Recipient: Brenda Yakle
2023 Award Recipient: Kelly Dostart
2022 Award Recipient: Mary Dunavant
2021 Award Recipient: Avi Suri
2020 Award Recipient: Terry Framke
2019 Award Recipient: Eric Mitchell
2018 Award Recipient: Lynn Hinkle
2017 Award Recipient: Pam Sherrill
2016 Award Recipient: Brian Davies
2015 Inaugural Award Recipient: Andrea Brady