The 2024 Mark Kraai lecture

Strong and effective partnerships are integral to development projects. Discover strategies for establishing fruitful partnerships with redevelopment industry professionals, local governments, nonprofits, banking community, and other stakeholders. In considering how to partner for development, there is no one-size-fits-all strategy. What’s suitable for one parcel might not work for another, and what matches the goals of your leadership and congregation could vary from another house of worship. Due diligence activities and collecting information can enable you to make an informed decision regarding the development strategy you want to pursue. These are a few proven strategies that could enable your house of worship to accomplish your desired development goals.

Getting Started with Affordable Housing Initiatives

Milton B. Hobbs serves as Senior Pastor at Antioch Baptist Church in Springfield, NJ., and New Covenant Fellowship of Clark, N.J. 

He served as Manager of the Division of Community Development and Neighborhood Housing for the City of East Orange, New Jersey for 20 years, retiring in 2021 to become more active in community ministry. 

Prior to working for the City, he served as Manager of the Faith Temple New Hope Church, Christian School & FTNH Community Development Corporation in East Orange where he was successful in developing a number of community-based projects; serving on various boards and coalitions within the Metro Newark area.  

Presently, Milton is serving as Sustainable Development Coordinator for the NJ Office of Faith Based Initiative. As part of his responsibilities he is developing a pathway that allows faith based organizations to use the vehicle of sustainable development to spur transformational economic and community revitalization. 

As an ordained minister and a leader in the faith-based community Milton has been able to leverage access through his associations and help drive success in community-based initiatives. He, with the help of other community minded individuals, founded Civic Cares Community Foundation to assist struggling non-profits gain greater financial capacity.

As an entrepreneur he and his wife, Kathy were owners of Psalms Christian Bookstore and managing editor of TAPinto East Orange/Orange; the city’s only hyper-local daily news source. 

Milton was ordained in July 1997 after graduating from Aenon Bible College that same year. He holds a BA in both English and Urban Communication from Rutgers University.

Wes Ifan is the CEO and Financial Advisor for Kobo Wealth Strategies. He has over 15 years experience in financial services. He holds his series 7, 66, life, and health insurance licenses. He also has his MBA in Business Strategy from Rutgers Business School.

Wes completed his Masters of Divinity at New Brunswick Theological Seminary and currently serves as Pastor at First Reformed Church Hawthorne. He is married to his beautiful wife Sasha. He is an avid sports fan and lover of music. He lives his life by the principle that he must be a wise steward over the time, talent, and resources he has. He hopes to help others do the same.

Leveraging Experience: Strength and Hope: Don’t Spend Your Money Yet

Oscar Parham

With over 19 years of work experience in various sectors, Oscar L. Parham, Jr. is a seasoned real estate professional passionate about creating quality, safe, affordable housing for all. Oscar has a strong finance, sales, management, and strategy background. Oscar is committed to advancing the mission and vision of the New Jersey Redevelopment Authority (NJRA), where he serve as the Chief Strategy Officer.

As the Chief Strategy Officer at NJRA, Oscar creates innovative solutions for developing and implementing the organization’s strategic plan, oversee the performance and operations of various departments, and foster partnerships and collaborations with internal and external stakeholders. Oscar leverages his skills in process improvement, innovation, mentoring, and astute decision-making to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of NJRA’s programs and services and to identify and pursue new opportunities and initiatives that support the revitalization and economic development of New Jersey’s urban communities.

Oscar’s passion for community development, education, and urban revitalization was ignited in a vibrant, multicultural neighborhood during his formative years. His upbringing instilled a deep sense of community and a desire to uplift underserved areas.

Communities are the beating heart of our society, shaping our values, experiences, and shared future. Recognizing and nurturing the importance of community is not just a social imperative; it is the foundation upon which we build a better, more inclusive, and more compassionate world.

Jorge Cruz

Jorge Cruz serves as executive director of LISC-New Jersey, a decades-long community investment program that has delivered more than $169 million to New Jersey neighborhoods, businesses and community organizations to support economic opportunity and growth. Jorge has deep roots in impact investing and community development across New Jersey. Most recently, he served as vice president for community development at Citizens Bank, building alliances with community leaders to deliver financial products and services to underbanked communities and leading the bank’s Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) market strategies.

He also spent nearly 30 years working as an executive and consultant to nonprofits, government and other community investment organizations supporting efforts to raise capital, develop sound grant-making practices and bridge health, economic and racial equity gaps that impact quality of life, as well as serving as chief external affairs officer for New Jersey Community Capital; chief strategy officer at the Jewish Renaissance Foundation; and executive director of Garden State Episcopal Community Development Corporation.

During his prior LISC tenure, Jorge administered more than $22 million in annual grant and investment commitments, all structured to benefit low-income communities. Innovative efforts include helping lead the formation of the New Jersey CDFI Capital Growth Fund, developing the local platform for LISC’s Entrepreneurs of Color Fund, forming the New Jersey Child Care & Early Learning Fund, and extending LISC’s Financial Opportunity Center model to new communities to help people build their skills, find quality jobs and better manage their finances.

In addition to his professional experience, Jorge also volunteers his time to benefit local organizations and communities. He serves as vice-chair of the Triple C Housing board, a member of the corporate advisory council for the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, and a member of the La Casa de Don Pedro board. For the last two years, he has served as a member of the Jegna Advisory Council, a statewide working group guiding the grantmaking strategy and priorities for the New Jersey office of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. He also serves as a steering committee member of the Doing Good Better advisory council, a state-level collaboration of the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers and the Center for Nonprofits, which are working together to form a trust-based philanthropy platform. Jorge formerly served as an executive officer for the New Jersey Center for Nonprofits and Jewish Renaissance Foundation boards as well.

Jorge earned his B.S. in sociology from the College of New Jersey. He can be reached at jcruz@lisc.org. Jorge lives in North Brunswick with his wife, Ivonne, and their 22-year old son, Sammy

Rev. Willie Tolbert

With his infectious energy and trademark bow tie, Willie Tolbert is a sought-after Conference and Retreat Speaker, Workshop Presenter, and Community Leader. Known for his ability to connect with diverse audiences, Willie has become a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals seeking personal and professional growth.

As the Founder of the Guy with The Bow Tie Academy, Willie channels his passion for change and connection into transformative courses. In “The Uniqueness of Being an Effective Networker,” he teaches participants the art of building relationships, creating opportunities, and achieving their goals through networking. Through “Forming a Nonprofit Organization,” he guides aspiring change-makers in developing a mission statement, securing funding, and making a lasting impact. In “Being Your Authentic Self,” he empowers individuals to embrace their true selves, conquer fears, and live their best lives, celebrating their uniqueness.

Not just a man of words, Willie dedicates himself to numerous community organizations where he fervently advocates social change. A Community Leader, he strives to make a tangible difference. Additionally, he regularly contributes to publications and blogs, generously sharing his insights on networking, nonprofit management, and personal development as a Workshop Presenter. Moreover, his expertise extends to assisting nonprofit organizations in forming their entities for tax exemption with the Internal Revenue Service, skillfully guiding them through the intricate process.

Recognized for his dedication, his accomplishments speak volumes as a sought-after Conference and Retreat Speaker. His engaging and informative presentations leave audiences captivated and inspired. With over 30 years of experience as a Business and Inspirational Coach, he has guided countless men toward achieving their goals, from starting successful businesses to leaving an indelible mark on their communities.

From his vast knowledge and experience, Willie brings immeasurable value to entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations. Entrepreneurs benefit from his guidance in business plan development, target market identification, securing funding, and navigating marketing, sales, and customer service. Nonprofit organizations find solace in Willie’s expertise in entity formation, fundraising, grant writing, and program development. Notably, his coaching knows no bounds by guiding men of all ages who seek to achieve their goals, regardless of their background or experience. His mentoring philosophy rests on believing that every man has the potential for success. By identifying their strengths and weaknesses, setting attainable goals, and crafting actionable plans, he helps them navigate their unique paths to success.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Willie is a Pastor and Author devoted to helping people grow in their faith. With a pastorship spanning over 29 years, he has empowered countless individuals to discover their purpose and fulfill their destinies. His wisdom, insight, and genuine connection with people make him an exceptional communicator and teacher. His books on spiritual growth, leadership, and personal development reflect his commitment to enriching the lives of others.

Willie is a man of faith, compassion and epitomizes servant leadership. Constantly extending a helping hand, he inspires those around him with his unwavering commitment to others. Married to his beloved Mamie for over 47 years, they embody the essence of a loving partnership, blessed with two remarkable adult sons, a beautiful daughter-in-law, and a precious granddaughter. Actively involved in their church and various ministries, Willie and Mamie exemplify the power of faith, love, and service.

Guided by the scriptures and inspired by luminaries like Martin Luther King Jr. and Mother Teresa, Willie believes in the untapped potential residing within every individual. His legacy, built on a foundation of service and inspiration, will continue to ignite the flames of change for generations to come.

The Importance of a Development Team, Who Should Be on it and Why

Rev. Crystal Moon-Boulware

Taiisa Kelly

Taiisa Kelly joined Monarch Housing Associates in March of 2006. She has experience in housing development working with federal, state and local funding sources to secure financing for special needs housing projects.

In October of 2007, Taiisa joined the Homelessness Planning Team where she works with local governments, nonprofits and community stakeholders to develop coordinated strategies to end homelessness.

On January 1, 2019, she was appointed as CEO.

Mrs. Kelly is a dedicated advocate for social justice who has assisted Monarch in expanding services to include strategic planning, grant writing, system oversight, project monitoring, grant administration, innovative program development, and data analysis. Since becoming CEO in 2019, Ms. Kelly has worked to expand and innovate the housing development focus of the agency. Monarch is developing new partnerships to support the creation of housing for marginalized communities with an eye towards innovations in development. Under Ms. Kelly’s leadership Monarch is focused on integrating racial equity into all aspects of homeless planning and housing development with the intent of ending homelessness in New Jersey.

Ms. Kelly was inducted into the NJ Housing and Economic Development Hall of Fame in 2023, and was named as one of the 2021 Best 50 Women in Business by NJBIZ Magazine. Mrs. Kelly serves on the Boards of Directors for Nourish. NJ and for the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey (HCDNNJ). She is a Member of United Black Agenda Committee and of the Enterprise Community Leadership Council and Enterprise Community Loan Fund Board, as well as a Commissioner on the Newark Commission on Homelessness. She additionally serves on the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation JEGNA Council, the New Jersey State of Affordable Housing (NJSOARH) Advisory Committee and as advisor on a number of other Boards and Councils.

Mrs. Kelly received her B.A. in psychology and anthropology from Rutgers University

JL Seymore

JL Seymore, the president & CEO of Fine-Be Properties started His Real Estate career in 2005. Over the years, He has expanded his Real Estate Portfolio by identifying Properties with good potential to be rented or renovated.

He is the man of commitment that all his tenants are treated as family and their satisfaction is his first priority.

His vision is to develop a subdivision in Ewing Township that provides quality luxury apartments, senior housing and mixed-use retail boutique on an eight-acre tract for a grand designed live, work, play community that will serve as a template for other development projects.

Tom has 42 years of experience working for local United Ways in Bergen, Burlington, and Hudson counties in New Jersey.

Since 2005, Tom has led Bergen County’s United Way efforts to build homes people can afford in partnership with Madeline Housing Partners as co-manager of BCUW/Madeline Housing Partners LLC. The partnership has constructed 44 projects providing affordable homes to over 600 individuals with special needs, families, seniors, and veterans. Another 28 projects are in the organization’s pre-development pipeline.

Tom is a board member of the NJ 2-1-1 Partnership, driving implementation of the 2-1-1 helpline on behalf of New Jersey’s local United Ways and New Jersey State Government and the Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey’s Investor Council.

Tom has been active in his local community, having served as a member of the Leonia Governing Body, the Leonia Library Board and chair of the town’s Planning Board.

Strategies to Maximize the Impact of Housing Development

Rev. Barry Wise

Reverend Barry E. Wise II was born in Rahway, New Jersey as the oldest son of Barry Sr. and Sandra Wise.  He was an active member of the Greater Mount Moriah Baptist Church, regularly engaging in the life of the church from an early age.  He graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Sciences & Technology and a Master of Business Administration degree from Columbia University in New York, NY.

Rev. Wise was licensed and ordained under the ardent tutelage of Rev. Ronald A. Green Sr. and began his theological education at Northern Baptist School of Religion.  He obtained his Master of Divinity degree from New Brunswick Theological Seminary, where he served as president of the Student Society of Inquiry and Ministry (SSIM) and received the John W. Coakley award for excellence in Church History and Foundational Theology. 

Rev. Wise was installed to the position of pastor by the congregation of Greater Mount Moriah Baptist Church of Linden, NJ on May 15th 2015 where he serves to fulfill his calling to lead and minister to God’s people in this present age.

Seeking to serve and improve the communities in which he lives; Rev. Wise participates in Faith in New Jersey, the New Jersey Clergy Coalition for Justice and the Union County Interfaith Coordinating Council and other local organizations.  Rev. Wise is committed to the advancement of a variety of causes: seeking justice and fairness regarding the issue of police brutality, promoting anti-racism and diversity training for all, establishing economic justice for lower and middle class members of our society, and reaching across ethnic and social barriers to form genuine bonds of community.

Rev. Wise is married to his devoted wife and best friend Kimberly Jones-Wise, with whom he has two children: Barack and Suriyah.

Rev. Angela Fields

Reverend Angela Fields is a community leader, published author, Community Pastor, and social justice advocate! Angela has navigated change in the non-profit sector for nineteen years. Her personal and professional background has shaped a woman who is passionate about creating bold solutions to drive an equitable future for children, families, and communities.

Angela is the Executive Director of Family Promise of Hunterdon County, Inc., which help families experiencing homelessness and low-income families achieve sustainable independence through a community-based response. Family Promise of Hunterdon County is especially proud that Reverend Angela Fields has been recognized by NJBIZ as one of the Best Fifty Women in Business in 2023 for the State of New Jersey. 

Angela’s areas of excellence are also in grant management, program development, relationship building, financial forecasting, and strategic plan formulation and prioritization.

Angela holds a Bachelor’s in communication minor in sociology and a Master of Divinity in community development (urban ministry).

Craig L. Sawyer

Craig L. Sawyer attended Ryder College and has a BS degree in Business Administration and Rutgers University graduate school for his MBA in finance. Craig is an expert on Urban Development, and Real Estate since 2002, specializing in various aspects of pre-construction, New construction, financing, development, and strategy. With Private Client Advisors, Craig serves as a licensed sales agent. He specializes in land and property acquisition, leasing, and sales of residential and commercial properties for rehabilitation and development. Craig’s capability is to transform a concept into a financially viable project and oversees the project through the planning process. Craig Sawyer has been active in real estate brokerage for over thirty years. Craig is the leading training instructor for New Jersey Redevelopment training institute.

Trending Issues in the NJ Faith Based Community

Dr. Charles Rix

Rev. Dr. (Madame) Regina Thomas

The Rev. Dr. Regena Lynn Thomas is a former politician who formerly held the office of secretary of state for New Jersey and is the director of the Human Rights and Community Relations Department of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT). Thomas was born and raised in Clinton, Kentucky, and attended local schools, graduating from high school in 1975. She then attended Morehead State University, in Morehead, Kentucky, and graduated with her B.A. in universal studies in 1979.

Thomas started her political career shortly after graduation when she began working for the Legislative Research Commission (LRC), under the Hon. Georgia Davis Powers, the first African American and at the time the only woman serving in the Kentucky State Senate. She relocated to Washington, D.C., and began working with the Rev. Jesse Jackson and the National Rainbow Coalition where she was a grassroots campaign organizer for his 1984 and 1988 presidential campaigns. Thomas also worked with District of Columbia Mayors Marion Barry and Sharon Platt during their political campaigns. She remained with the Rev. Jackson for 12 years, working with the PUSH coalition and various other commissions.

From 1997 to 2007 Thomas worked for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) as a base vote director. Additionally, as a political consultant she served on the Democratic Senatorial Committee specializing in African American voter turnout. Her outstanding work caught the eye of New Jersey Gov. James McGreevy, who appointed Thomas secretary of state of New Jersey after his 2001 election. Thomas was responsible for cultural affairs, minority affairs, literacy, state history and record keeping, volunteerism, and upkeep of the state archives.

Thomas held the position of secretary of state from 2002 to 2006 before accepting the call into ministry. She then attended New Brunswick Theological Seminary, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and graduated in 2008 with a master’s degree in divinity. She was ordained into the African Methodist Episcopal Church and began ministering at Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Trenton, New Jersey. Thomas continued her work in the political field as deputy campaign manager for the National Education Association from 2008 to 2009.