By John Mwesigwa on February 21, 2025
For Jeffrey Hines, running an insurance business goes beyond policies and paperwork—it’s about helping people feel safe.
A father of three, an avid golfer, and a proud owner of Marley, the cutest mini goldendoodle: Jeffrey approaches life with a mix of discipline and heart.
When Jeffrey Hines discovered that State Farm had an opening (an agent retired), he saw the perfect opportunity to bring his analytical expertise and passion for problem-solving into a field where it could make a real impact: insurance.
This was more than just a career shift—it was a chance to build a business that educates families and companies about using insurance as an asset and protecting what matters most. It also provided a chance to support local talent by building a team that grows and succeeds together.
Fast forward almost four years, and Jeffrey is not only running a successful agency helping people and businesses stay safe amidst challenging situations but also making a meaningful difference in the community.
Through his agency, Hines supports local schools, collaborates with the chamber of commerce and peer business owners on strategic planning, and invests in other small businesses by purchasing gift cards for new clients.
Jeffrey has become a trusted partner for his neighbors, combining professional expertise with a deep commitment to giving back.
Jeffrey’s journey to becoming a local business owner started in a world far removed from insurance. With a background in mechanical engineering and applied mathematics, he spent years tackling complex problems for government and commercial clients.
When Jeffrey learned of an opening at State Farm, he saw it as the perfect opportunity to make a change.
“Insurance may seem worlds apart from engineering, but the problem-solving mindset carries over,” Jeffrey shares. “I wanted to take a fresh approach—one that blends analytical tools with genuine human connection.”
Jeffrey credits much of his resilience and strategic thinking to watching his mother work her way through law school while raising a family.
“She taught me perseverance and how to push through even when circumstances weren’t ideal,” Jeffrey recalls. “I also learned from friends and family who started businesses—what worked for them and what didn’t. It shaped my belief in growing steadily and focusing on doing things right, instead of taking on too much too soon.”
Jeffrey’s agency, Hines Insurance and Financial Services (check their website – hinesinsures.com) focuses on helping individuals and businesses secure their futures. From life insurance that builds generational wealth to customized strategies for small business continuity, Jeffrey’s goal is to make insurance work for his clients, not the other way around.
“We’re here to help people with the big questions: ‘What if something happens? How can we protect what we’ve worked so hard for?’” Jeffrey explains. “For businesses, it’s about creating plans that keep operations running smoothly no matter what life throws at you.”
Let’s not forget that behind every business, many families rely on it: the owners, the collaborators, and even the customers who are positively impacted by the business.
When it comes to choosing an insurance advisor, Jeffrey emphasizes the importance of trust and open communication.
“It’s essential to work with someone you feel comfortable having strategic conversations with. It needs to be an honest conversation because you must share your goals and financial situation—whether it’s sending your kids to college or ensuring your home is protected.”
By understanding your situation, the insurance advisor can help you create a tailored plan that supports your family and your future.
Although Jeffrey didn’t grow up in Chicago, it didn’t take long for him to feel at home. He was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, where he learned most of the lessons he brings forward. Later on, he moved to Washington, D.C. as part of his previous career, which dealt with the government.
After his time in the Federal Sector came to an end, he was drawn to Chicago’s friendly, welcoming atmosphere: “The food, the people, it all just clicked. I felt at home here.”
As a Community Foundation’s Leadership Lab Fellows Program graduate, Jeffrey’s commitment to giving back is evident in everything he does. His agency supports local schools, works with the chamber of commerce on strategic initiatives, and even buys gift cards from local businesses to welcome new clients. “Giving back is part of who we are. This isn’t just where I work—it’s where I belong.”
Under Jeffrey’s leadership, the agency has grown steadily, with a focus on personal service and long-term relationships. He believes in meeting clients where they are—literally and figuratively—whether that means tailoring a policy to fit a family’s budget or hosting “coffee chats” for business owners to share strategies.
“We don’t just want to be your insurance agency; we want to be a resource. We want to be someone you can trust to have the strategic conversations, whether it’s about protecting your home, your family, or your business.”
With plans to expand his team and continue fostering strong community ties, Jeffrey is optimistic about the road ahead. His engineering mindset ensures the agency runs efficiently, while his passion for people keeps it rooted in compassion.
When he’s not busy with work, Jeffrey enjoys golfing, traveling to tropical destinations with his family, and spending time with his mini goldendoodle, Marley.
He is also Strategic Planning Chairman for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the oldest African American Greek letter intercollegiate fraternity.
It’s these moments, he says, that remind him of why he does what he does: “Insurance is about protecting life’s most precious parts so people can focus on enjoying them.”
if you’re looking for someone to help you get the best insurance for your needs, talk to Jeffrey directly at jeffrey@hinesinsures.com, and remember; be sure, not sorry with Hines Insures.
Website: www.hinesinsures.com
Email: jeffrey@hinesinsures.com
Phone: +1 708 628 5100
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