Times Observer file photo by Josh Cotton Danielle Flasher is pictured being sworn in for a new term on the Warren City Council.

Editor’s Note: This is the first in a continuing series of stories highlighting area residents. If you have a suggestion on an interesting person to profile, email heathercathcart-norris@timesobserver.com.

By HEATHER CATHCART-NORRIS

hcathcart-norris@timesobserver.com

Meet Danielle “Dani” Flasher, Warren City Council vice president who is involved in much more than just council meetings on Monday nights.

At 29 years old, Flasher is a program associate for a consulting firm specializing in federal and HUD funding for home improvement programs aimed at low-to-moderate-income households. Her role allows her to raise awareness and encourage residents to explore the resources available in their community.

“As community leaders, our job is to commune with residents, listen to their concerns, and make sure they know what opportunities exist,” Flasher said.

Flasher’s journey into city leadership was unexpected. After one semester at the Unversity of Akron, she worked full-time at JBC while taking night classes at Northwest State Community College. She eventually earned a degree in business management and marketing. She even tried her hand at photography with Bluestem Photo Studio – but public service called her name.

She entered Warren’s City Council in June 2022 when Joe Michaels moved away. She expressed her thoughts at a city Parks and Recreation meeting which led to her submitting a resume to serve on the City Council. She interviewed before a council panel in July and was sworn into office on a Monday in August.

“I was shocked,” she recalls. “At the end of the day, I just showed up, and the community embraced me.”

Flasher serves as the county’s grant administrator, a role in which she jumped in headfirst. She also actively participates in the Community Engagement Committee and represents Warren as a delegate for the Council of Governments with officials from 27 municipalities to foster regional collaboration.

Understanding that leadership comes with challenges, she acknowledges that decision-making is never easy.

“No matter what decision you make, about 30% will be indifferent, and 40% may disagree. My own opinions don’t matter – it’s about serving the people. I can’t make 100% of people happy, but I wish I could,” she says. “It is an honor and a privilege to serve this community.”

Beyond her role in the council, Flasher is passionate about working with youth and inspiring the next generation to take an active role in their community. She believes that showing up is the first step toward any meaningful change. “You could live here your whole life and never step into leadership, but if you do, you’ll see just how much you can influence progress,” Flasher said.

As she looks forward to her 30s, Flasher embraces the future with optimism.

“Aging is a gift, and I intend to use my life experiences to serve my community in the best way possible,” she said.