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Business NDS names Shank to head development arm

Colin McEwen

Record-Courier staff writer

To help Ravenna families and help bring business to the area, NDS created a new economic development position to head up Ravenna's Homeownership Center.

Jim Shank, a former vice president of Key Bank of Portage County, begins his new post Monday to increase homebuyer education, and residential and commercial lending in an effort to boost the local economy.

David Vaughan, executive director of NDS, said Shank's experience is crucial to the new position.

"Having worked in the banking industry for 30 years, Jim understands the landscape of consumer lending and business development," he said.

In addition to heading the homeownership center, Shank will oversee business recruiting and small business loan packages.

Shank, who took a pay cut to work for the non-profit community organization, said he looks forward to working hands-on in the community to make a difference.

"I am looking forward to accomplishing new goals making a positive impact through housing and economic development and continuing to serve such a great community," said Shank. "I think my banking background brings a different perspective, because I know how the banking world works.

The Ravenna native earned attended Kent State University, graduating in 1976 with a degree in communications.

"I get the biggest kick out of helping somebody and showing them how to get things done," he said. "People might not think they can get financing, there's always a way -- it may take some time, but there is a path to get there."

NDS, a housing and economic development advocate serving 16-county region of Ohio, is affiliated with a national network of 230 NeighborWorks organizations working in more than 4,400 communities nationwide.