Formed in 2012, Kalel is a certified M/WBE real estate development group that has led the redevelopment and preservation of over 3,000 affordable units with an estimated $800 million in capitalization.
Kalel Companies
Pierre Downing, Founding Principal
Pierre Downing is a dynamic real estate development veteran with nearly two decades of expertise spanning public, non-profit, and private sectors. At Kalel, he leads transactions, leveraging his extensive network with community stakeholders, government bodies, lenders, and investors. Previously, as Vice President of Affordable Housing at Monadnock Development and Director of Real Estate at Notias Construction, Inc., Pierre spearheaded the revitalization of over 3,000 units with $800 million in development costs. His journey began as an analyst at the New Jersey Housing Mortgage & Finance Agency, igniting his passion for affordable housing by witnessing its transformative impact on communities, particularly his hometown of Trenton. Now based in New York City, Pierre remains dedicated to serving at-risk populations, driven by his unwavering commitment to creating safe, vibrant housing opportunities.
Amy Stokes, Principal
Amy Stokes is a powerhouse in the housing industry with decades of experience in leading large-scale new construction and rehabilitation projects valued at over $1 billion. At Kalel, she drives the sourcing and execution of development projects across the portfolio with precision and expertise. Previously, as Vice President at Monadnock Development, Amy orchestrated the development of approximately 2,400 residential units throughout New York City. Her tenure as Deputy Director in the New York City Housing Authority’s Real Estate Department showcased her leadership in managing teams that collaborated closely with government agencies on financing and closing new construction and preservation projects, including pioneering the first RAD transaction. Amy kickstarted her career shaping housing finance policy for the New York City Council Speaker’s office. She also contributes her insights to the field through her role on the advisory council for both the New York Housing Conference and the Fund for Public Housing.
Noel Henderson-James, Principal
Noel is a seasoned affordable housing development and finance expert with over two decades of experience in originating, structuring, and cultivating affordable housing projects. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in syndicating over $500 million in LIHTC investments and developing more than 5,000 affordable and mixed-income units. Recently serving as Development Director at Laurel Street Residential, Noel oversaw the day-to-day management of a $200 million, 1,000-unit new construction pipeline in Durham, NC. Prior to this, he originated, structured and closed over $500 million in LIHTC investments across key urban centers such as New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC, with Raymond James Affordable Housing Investments and Richman Housing Resources. Noel's career in affordable housing began with roles at the National Equity Fund and Michaels Development Company in Chicago, followed by a transformative term as a Project Manager with Gulf Coast Housing Partnership in New Orleans post-Hurricane Katrina.
Adrienne Wolff, Development Associate
Adrienne Wolff, a Development Associate at Kalel Companies, brings a wealth of expertise to her role. With a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies from Brown University and ongoing studies in real estate development at Pratt Institute, she is deeply passionate about affordable housing, public policy, and urban design.Before joining Kalel, Adrienne demonstrated her leadership and operational skills by spearheading operations and product development at a consumer goods startup. Her efforts resulted in significant improvements in supply chain efficiency and product margins. Prior to this, Adrienne founded The GAP Project, a campaign volunteer placement service, and played a pivotal role in public space policy development for an NYC mayoral campaign.
Kimberly Hill, Administrative Associate
Kimberly Hill is a seasoned professional known for her exceptional administrative skills and ensures smooth functioning within the organization. Before joining Kalel Companies in 2023, Kimberly amassed valuable experience at Monadnock Development for 4 years and Henry Street Settlement for 5 years, working across non-profits, corporations, and private entities. Kimberly holds an Associate Degree in Hospitality Management from Monroe College, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, and is a licensed Notary Public.
Preservation Logistics
Heather Walker, Managing Director
Heather Walker, a native New Yorker raised in NYCHA’s Baruch Houses, began her journey in affordable housing as a resident liaison, showcasing a blend of professionalism and compassion. With a degree in Computer Information Systems and a sharp analytical mind, she's become a respected leader known for her understanding, empathy, and genuine dedication to enhancing underprivileged communities. Heather fosters growth through team collaboration, drawing inspiration from her strong family upbringing that instilled in her the values of determination and excellence in the face of challenges.
Dustin Wimbish, Managing Director of Operations
Dustin Wimbish is a dedicated professional with a strong background in property management, where he discovered his passion for coordinating construction projects with a focus on resident impact. An Army Veteran, Dustin served from 2004 to 2009, including tours in both Afghanistan and Iraq. He holds a Master’s in Management and a Bachelor’s in Political Science from the American Military University. Dustin’s approach to his work is rooted in his commitment to prioritizing residents while ensuring well-coordinated and efficient projects for clients. Outside of his professional life, Dustin enjoys reading and spending quality time with his family.
Shawn Steward, Resident Coordinator
Shawn Stewart serves as a Resident Coordinator at Preservation Logistics. In this role, he ensures a seamless renovation process by working closely with both residents and construction teams. His responsibilities include coordinating schedules, assisting with temporary relocations, organizing moving teams, managing lease signings, resolving issues related to missing or broken items, addressing construction-related inquiries from tenants, distributing communication for resident meetings, and maintaining detailed records of renovation progress. Before joining Preservation Logistics, Shawn gained valuable experience at Pact Renaissance Collaborative, where he worked in a similar capacity for two years. His ability to multitask and his exceptional focus and energy make him an invaluable team player dedicated to completing tasks efficiently. Shawn holds a background in Communication and Accounting, having studied at Clark Atlanta University and Sacred Heart University. Beyond his professional commitments, he is a passionate community volunteer and activist, actively involved in feeding and clothing the homeless and mentoring youth through coaching basketball.
Paris Milane, Resident Coordinator
Paris Milane brings a unique blend of expertise to her professional endeavors. Holding a degree in Psychology with a dual concentration in Early Childhood and Adolescent Development, as well as Mental Health, Paris has worked extensively with diverse populations, including lower socioeconomic families, the terminally and chronically ill, housing insecure individuals, sexual minorities, varied immigrant communities, and those with severe mental illness. Fluent in English, French, German, and Spanish, Paris is continuously expanding her linguistic repertoire, actively learning Russian, Mandarin, and Koine Greek since 2015. Her professional philosophy centers on client-centered services that prioritize compassion, understanding, and non-judgmental care.
