Meadowlark — A Kansas retirement community built to feel like home.

Since opening its doors in 1980, Meadowlark in Manhattan, Kansas, has grown into a vibrant nonprofit retirement community, offering a full continuum of care — from independent living to skilled nursing and short-term recovery. With nearly 400 residents and a campus-wide occupancy rate consistently above 90%, Meadowlark’s success stems from its commitment to evolving with each generation’s needs.

Fast-track financing for a new medical clinic.

In 2021, Meadowlark’s leadership envisioned a new medical clinic on campus — not operated by Meadowlark itself, but leased to a physician group to better serve the broader community. With limited time to secure financing, Meadowlark turned to Commerce Bank.

Commerce was one of three banks Meadowlark contacted about financing the new construction. “We just felt more comfortable working with Commerce — and more confident that they could get the funding we needed on short notice,” said Chris Nelson, Finance Director at Meadowlark. “They certainly delivered. Their service was absolutely amazing.”

Commerce swiftly arranged a construction loan, which was refinanced into a bond note just days later. The bank’s responsiveness left a lasting impression and opened the door to a broader partnership.

Shared values drive financial innovation.

Following the successful clinic financing, Commerce Bank took a deeper look at Meadowlark’s payment cycle, identifying opportunities to streamline operations while staying true to the organization’s mission. The collaboration was rooted in shared values — putting people first, supporting the community, and delivering practical, mission-aligned solutions.

One standout solution was Commerce’s corporate purchasing card program. “We’re unusual in that about 40 of our staff carry credit cards — more than you’d see in most organizations like ours,” Nelson said.

The program not only enhances convenience and control, it also generates revenue share for Meadowlark. Behind the scenes, CommercePayments^® automation further simplifies vendor payments, reduces check volume, and earns rebates — all while supporting faster, more secure transactions.

Banking with a community lens.

“What’s unique about our business is that our customers live here,” Nelson said. “When we come to work each day, we are entering someone’s home. And while we must be fiscally responsible, we also have to live out our mission. We must remember who we serve.”

In Commerce, they found bankers who are active in the community and understand what it takes to support institutions like Meadowlark that anchor it.

“Commerce responds quickly, offers candid advice and never pushes services we don’t need,” Nelson said. “They’re extremely professional and knowledgeable — a great financial partner to have in our corner.”