How one Penn Community Bank commercial lender made his mark in Montgomery County
Everyone knows the dance to the 1978 Village People hit “Y.M.C.A.” But not many people know what it takes to run one of the 2,700 Y’s across the nation.
Founded over 160 years ago, the YMCA remains committed to strengthening communities by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. The organization is focused on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in 10,000 neighborhoods around America – including here in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
For nearly the last 20 years, the North Penn YMCA and its two facilities in Montgomery County could count on local resident and Penn Community Bank C&I Lending Team Leader Dan Hines to advance the mission.
Across six terms on the Lansdale-based Y’s board of directors, Dan did a little of everything – from leading charitable giving efforts and chairing the Budget and Finance Committee, to serving on the executive committee and a stint as board president.
During his tenure leading the board, Dan started what became the Future Directions Task Force – a group created to rehabilitate, expand, and create an entirely new YMCA concept at their site in Lansdale. In partnering with area non-profits, today the 65,000 square-foot location is home to the traditional Y staples – athletic facilities, pools, and childcare – but also hosts area non-profits, including Manna on Main Street and a senior living facility. The creative use of the building places the North Penn YMCA at the heart of the community and, last year alone, the organization provided over $870,000 in charitable services, including day care scholarships to single parents, YMCA memberships for families in need, access to after-school programs, training space of Special Olympians, and more.
In December of 2019, Dan wrapped up his final term, but the Y had one more surprise for him.
On January 3, Dan was presented the Clayton R. Smith Award and inducted into the North Penn YMCA Hall of Fame for his two decades “exceptional leadership and commitment to service.” The unexpected recognition was made even sweeter by the attendance of his wife and children who were able to share in his special honor. Dan is now one of 19 inductees to this distinguished group.
“So much of my daily life is focused on trying to be a good father, good husband and good banker. The work I do at the YMCA is a great outlet to do something for the community and those members who are not as fortunate as I am but are every bit as deserving of the opportunity to be a part of all that the Y has to offer,” said Hines. “What I get back from the satisfaction of being a part of the organization – the interactions with the great people there who I have immense respect for and have learned so much from – far exceeds what I have put into it. It is an honor to receive this recognition.”
