Danielle DaChar Hines, Maj. JD/LL.M., is known as a visionary leader who blends legal expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and a dedication to community service. Her multifaceted career spans military service, ministry work, nonprofit leadership, business ventures, and legal practice. Her ability to drive meaningful change in her community while simultaneously building financial security serves as an inspiring model for those seeking to transform their unique vision of financial success into tangible reality.
In 2010, Danielle DaChar Hines, Cpt. JD/LL.M moved to Birmingham to clerk for Judge Helen Shores Lee, Civil Rights leader and daughter of Arthur Shores, Alabama’s first black attorney to represent his own clients, including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. They became close over the years, and before Judge Lee passed, she entrusted Danielle with purchasing the Historic Arthur Shores Law Center, asking her to create a vibrant and inclusive community center in the building.
Despite never having owned property and facing initial financing rejections, Hines was able to secure the building, and according to Lee’s wishes, opened CREED63 on Juneteenth 2021, as a business accelerator supporting entrepreneurs. By 2024, CREED63 reached capacity with a second location under construction.
Some people dream of success & impact; Danielle makes it happen.
Key highlights of Danielle's journey:
Ms. Hines met Carlie Ransom, CFP®, AIF® in 2022. Carlie developed the funding strategy and managed grants for Danielle’s vision. They continue collaborating on the Providing Access to Capital Equality Program, which delivers culturally-intentional financial education and support in accounting and tax practices. This innovative approach to supporting entrepreneurs shaped her vision for a more inclusive financial planning industry. In 2024, she cofounded Equal Path Investments with Mrs. Ransom. Their mission: to challenge industry norms, foster inclusivity, and transform financial planning into a tool for social change.
As one of the few female-owned investment firms, Equal Path Investments stands at the forefront of change. Danielle's legal acumen and community leadership, combined with Carlie's financial expertise, drive their mission to blend social impact with financial stability.
When not championing financial inclusivity, Danielle continues her lifelong commitment to helping others thrive, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and serving on various community boards. She spends her weekends training in the Air National Guard and spending quality time with family across the country. Despite her gigantic resume, she’s funny and down to earth, so hopefully you get to meet her one day.
