Chamber Insider Blog

Thank you to Dan Hampton, a Loudoun Chamber Board Member from Bank of Clarke, for being a spotlight for Jewish American Heritage Month!

Where were you born and raised, and if it was someplace else, when and why did you come to Loudoun?

I was born and raised in New Jersey. I moved to Loudoun County in 2005 when the Bank I was working for at the time moved me here.

Tell us about your business/nonprofit and how long you’ve been in your industry.

Professionally, I am a banker who specializes in working with government contractors and small businesses. This year I am proud to celebrate my 20^th year in the industry. I started my nonprofit, The Backpack Buddies Foundation of Loudoun (BBFL) in 2013. BBFL is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, grant-writing organization that provides financial support to individual programs throughout Loudoun County committed to providing weekend food for students in need.

How did you get into this line of work?

Banking was my job when I graduated from Elon University. I applied to a Bank at a job fair that was held and was fortunate to get the opportunity to enter this field. What I thought would be a job for a few years turned into a career that I love.

Have you had any special mentors or inspirations that guided your career?

Yes, I would not be here without the mentors that I have been fortunate to learn from. The mentors I had helped guide me both professionally and philanthropically. I knew that I wanted to make an impact in my community, but with so many amazing nonprofits and causes in the county, they helped me find the path I wanted to go down.

What is the best part of your job and why?

Without question, the best part is helping business owners and knowing we make an impact on the success of their businesses. I grew up in a family business, that I helped run for several years, so knowing that I can help them with their goals drives me every day. Every business is different with unique needs, so being able to put together customized solutions is not only fun but also rewarding.

What is it like doing business in Loudoun/Northern Virginia?

Loudoun and NOVA is a very competitive business landscape which creates a challenge, but also tremendous opportunity. The fun part is getting to meet new people and see the success of our local businesses. There is a great support system for business owners in the County that helps bankers like me create a big value add so they can be successful.

What does Jewish American Heritage Month mean to you?

First, I am appreciative that we have a Jewish American Heritage Month.  Being Jewish is part of my identity and something I am proud of, so I am always in favor of having a chance to raise awareness and share our stories.

Favorite things to do when you are not working?

When I am not working or running my nonprofit, I love spending time with my kids on the soccer and baseball fields, playing golf, cooking, and reading.