Ms. Danage, who has formed her own mentorship program called Sisters Helping Sisters and teaches "Banking 101" to youth through the Urban League, is busy calling on Warren-area businesses to discuss their growth goals and financial needs.

"This is really exciting work," she says. "I'm building a lot of bridges, making things happen for businesses and connecting them with the professional help they need."

Just in her recent travels, Ms. Danage has helped a local car wash and a church obtain financing for special projects. Both transactions were more than just completing loan papers--in each case, she made helpful recommendations to improve the business' finances.

"People have been impressed with the fact that I come to them," she says. "They find it to be very personalized service. And they realize that we don't just want to provide one loan, we want a lasting relationship."

In her new position, Ms. Danage is also working to raise awareness about the Express Loan office. The office, located in the Trumbull Community Action Program (TCAP) Building on Palmyra Road in Warren, offers Second National Bank's complete range of loans, including mortgages and SBA loans. The only service not provided at the office are deposits and withdrawals.

"Whether it's a home improvement loan, a new home, or a business loan, we can find the product to suit nearly everyone's needs," she says.

In addition to her six years of banking experience, Ms. Danage also has an understanding of and commitment to the community where she lives with her husband Avery, and three children.

"I really believe that businesses should make a community better off because of their presence," says Ms. Danage. "I think that's definitely the case with Second National. We're here to help the people that live here. We want to be part of their success."