THE BLOCK:
LEADERS
IN THE COMMUNITY
Charise Key a member of Ebenezer Ministries , she is often reminded, “To whom much is given, much is required.” Charise lives whole-heartedly by this saying and believes it is important to give back to the people and community that has helped make her who she is today.
Charise is currently the Vice President and District Manager for 15 Comerica banking centers across Southeast Michigan, celebrating 20 years with the company. She quickly embraced the company’s vision of helping others by becoming involved with Comerica Cares. She says, “I believe in order to be productive in society one must look for ways to give back to the community and mentor as many people as possible.”
Charise is a member of Delta Sigma Theta, sorority. Charise has served on the leadership council for Comerica’s African American Network (CAAN) for the past four years. With this organization, she coordinates social networking events for Comerica employees as an opportunity to encourage mentoring relationships by introducing her colleagues to company leaders. Charise also represents Comerica on the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC).
Outside of CAAN and the MMSDC, Charise is also involved with the Autism Society of Genesee County, an organization near and dear to her heart. “My son Emari was diagnosed with autism at age 2,” she says. “The Autism Society looks to educate others about people with autism so that children, like Emari, are treated with respect in our communities.”
Charise credits the support of her parents for success in balancing both a career and family. “My parents always wanted me to continue a destiny of great things and I am very proud of being the best mother I can be to my son,” she says. “When I leave the house to go to work or volunteer, my son understands that I am leaving to help others and to make his life the best possible.”
She says her son has opened her eyes to the importance of family and helps her put things into perspective. She says, “I strive to make every business and personal experience a positive one.”
-Biography provided by Sis Charise key