Meet Ben McDaniel: Building Community Through Service, Family, and Purpose
By Barbara Myers Myers Mason APR
When Ben McDaniel talks about service, his voice carries the cadence of a man who has spent years actively building a better world. A devoted husband, father, and community leader, McDaniel has made it his mission to strengthen the connections that bind people together, whether through economic development or volunteering in his community.
He said, “Seeing my three kids and other Rotary families engage in service opportunities is inspiring. Whether serving ice cream at Camp Twin Lakes, assisting with food distributions, or supporting the community Christmas program, these experiences bring our community together in meaningful ways.”
For McDaniel, Barrow County is more than a place to earn a living and raise a family. Having grown up there during parts of a tumultuous childhood – frequently moving and changing schools - he returned in 2017, eager to give back. He said, “Returning as an adult to make meaningful contributions within the school system, the community, and the business world has been a true blessing.”
In his role as Economic Development Director for the Barrow-Braselton Joint Economic Development Authority, McDaniel left a legacy of progress. A highlight of his tenure was securing Barrow County's first Kroger, a sprawling 119,000-square-foot facility.
Now, as he steps into the role of Vice President of Economic Development for the Development Authority of Walton County, he looks forward to learning from someone he considers one of the best in the business, Shane Short, Executive Director of the authority.
McDaniel’s journey with Rotary began in 2017 while serving as Executive Director of Barrow County Family Connection when a board member "volun-told" him to join the Rotary Club of Winder. What started as a professional obligation quickly turned into a passion.
"What keeps me engaged are the relationships, camaraderie, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact,” he said.
“The laughs, sweat and occasional tears shared while serving the community are deeply rewarding.”
In 2020, McDaniel served as Club President, steering the Rotary Club of Winder through the uncharted waters of the pandemic. Recognizing the need for an expanded Rotary presence, he helped charter the Barrow Area Rotary Club (BARC) in 2023 which has quickly grown from 38 to 58 members. He serves as Membership Chair, Treasurer and the Chair of the BARC Foundation, the club’s fundraising arm. He said, “Rotary has provided invaluable professional connections and friendships that enrich my life.”
Beyond Rotary, McDaniel’s volunteerism extends to multiple boards and initiatives, from the Barrow County Farmers Market to Adult Literacy Barrow to Keep Barrow Beautiful. In addition, he is a Sims Academy board member and volunteers with the Piedmont Soccer Academy.
As Lead Facilitator for Leadership Barrow and a member of the Finance Committee and Citizens Advisory Council for the Northeast Georgia Health System, McDaniel has worn many hats, each reflecting his unwavering commitment to his community.
When McDaniel isn’t advocating for economic growth or planning the next Rotary project, you might find him running, cheering on UGA football, or watching pro wrestling. At home, he’s the proud dad of Jo, 12, Harper, 8, and Benji, 7, and husband to Kelli, the Assistant Director of the Piedmont Regional Library System. Their two corgis, Merlin and Howie Dewitt, add a dose of humor to family life—especially when the family breaks into a chorus of “This is Howie Dewitt.”
Reflecting on his journey, McDaniel said, "I’m just grateful. Grateful for the people who’ve supported me, for the opportunities to give back, and for the chance to show my kids what it means to serve."
As McDaniel embarks on the next chapter of his professional and Rotary life, one thing is clear: his dedication to service—rooted in family, community, and a deep sense of purpose—will continue to make a lasting impact.
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