Board of Directors Spotlight: Gary Blum

Gary Blum delivering remarks at recent Greenfield Place dedication event.

The DHIC board of directors plays an important role in our accomplishments and helping us achieve our goal of bringing affordable housing options to the community.

Gary Blum, Business Relationship Manager and Vice President at Wells Fargo, joined our board of directors seven years ago, making him the longest-tenured member currently serving. In that time, he has been involved with the executive and finance committees and is now serving his third and final year as Board Chair.

He says, “Part of our mission at Wells Fargo is to be engaged in the community. Back in 2011, I had recently come off the board of another organization and was looking for a new one to join. DHIC seemed like a good fit for me. I’m passionate about helping people in the community have access to housing that is clean, safe and affordable. Serving on the board has given me the opportunity to help make it happen.”

In his years on the Board of Directors, Gary has helped with the development and completion of eight different apartment communities. When asked which project has touched his heart the most, Gary responded, “Washington Terrace.”

“This is the largest project that we’ve undertaken, and there has been a lot of public visibility around it, which has created new opportunities for DHIC. I’m excited about the living environment that we’re creating for these residents. To have been part of this project from the very beginning phase of securing funding, to see it near completion has been special,” he said.

Originally from Virginia Beach, Gary attended the University of South Florida, where he met his wife. Over the years, Gary has served as a chairperson for organizations like Big Brothers and Big Sisters, United Way and, after moving to Raleigh in 2006, the Raleigh City Museum.

In his free time, Gary and his wife spend their time in the outdoors, staying active by cycling and hiking.

“DHIC board members, like Gary, are a vital part of our success,” says DHIC President, Gregg Warren. “Gary has been an incredibly consistent and supportive force during his tenure, as both a board member and leader of the board. He has been willing to ask tough questions when needed, in a manner that’s incredibly effective and oftentimes with humor added. We are thankful for his seven years of dedicated service.”