Born and raised in Northwest Indiana, Andrew Kyres has always been extremely involved with his community in one way or another.
"I find it important to give back to and be visible in the community," Kyres commented.
Currently, Kyres works for First Financial Bank in Crown Point, where he has been working for the past thirteen years. Starting off in the restaurant business, Kyres transitioned into People's Bank after getting his Masters Degree. Soon after, he saw that First Financial Bank was planning to open up a couple of offices in Merrillville and Crown Point. It was the perfect timing and perfect location, so he applied for a job and the rest is history. Kyres manages two banking centers in Crown Point and is in charge of business development for First Financial Bank.
Through his work in the restaurant and banking industries, Kyres became involved with the Crossroads Chamber, volunteering for over twenty-five years. The Crosswords Chamber helps work towards the betterment of Northwest Indiana businesses and communities by promoting economic development, quality business practices, a voice in public policy, and civic pride. This is accomplished through active involvement of its members to provide business leadership, a forum for the exchanges of ideas, business-to-business opportunities, and support of community events. Kyres serves as a board member for the Crossroads Chamber, a member of the ambassador committee and represents the city of Crown Point and First Financial Bank.
"I try to do everything I can for my community. Through my work, I've been able to connect with so many other aspects of the community, and continue to help others, like the Small Business Development Center, which I am grateful," Kyres said.
Kyres is involved in many other aspects of the local community as well. Presently, he serves on the administration committee for Meals on Wheels, is a trustee of the local Ivy Tech college, volunteers his time with the Small Business Development Center, and the Crown Point Rotary. Kyres also serves on the board of administrators for the Shared Ethics Advisory Commission, which represents local government entities of Lake, Porter and La Porte Counties that have voluntarily committed themselves to the Shared Code of Ethics and Values. Kyres and the other members of the Shared Ethics Advisory Commission accomplish the organization's mission by providing regular training sessions, printed training materials, advocacy articles and an ongoing collaborative effort to enhance ethical behavior within the participating governments. Finally, Kyres is a member of the Lake County Advancement Committee, which is a study committee that takes different issues and discusses them at monthly meetings, trying to find plausible solutions.
"I've always been involved in the community in some aspect or another... all of my life. I just find it hard not to be when there is so much I can be doing for my community," Kyres said about his continuous volunteer work in the city of Crown Point.
When he's not working for First Financial Bank or volunteering his time to various organizations, Kyres takes time to enjoy himself and his hobbies. Kyres loves yoga, and is in face a certified yoga instructor. He also enjoys spending his free time riding his bike and playing tennis whenever he can manage it.