President and Founder

For over 25 years, John has been an unwavering force in the realm of affordable housing in New Jersey, actively reshaping communities for the better. He skillfully transformed a modest grassroots neighborhood group into a robust nonprofit organization that now diligently serves eight diverse municipalities across Hudson and Essex Counties. With an impressive track record of managing over $300 million in funding, John has played a pivotal role in creating more than 1,000 affordable housing units, revitalizing 300 abandoned properties, and overseeing a thriving portfolio of 150 Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) developments.

John's groundbreaking homeownership program has empowered hundreds of families, enabling each to build more than $300,000 in wealth, thereby fostering economic stability and prosperity. His visionary approach to neighborhood planning has also attracted millions of dollars in tax credit investments, significantly enhancing local infrastructure and community resources. As a two-time chairman of the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey, John has profoundly influenced both local and state housing policies. He has cultivated strong partnerships with mayors and the Governor's office, advocating for impactful community development initiatives that resonate deeply with residents' needs. John’s unwavering dedication and innovative approach are truly transformative, making a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals and families.

Senior Project Manager

James is an invaluable asset to our organization, tirelessly driving growth and creating a profound impact in the communities we serve. With exceptional leadership qualities, he expertly guides a diverse range of real estate development projects and intricate planning initiatives throughout New Jersey. His innovative approach ensures that each undertaking not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our nonprofit and for-profit clients. Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to equitable and sustainable development, his strategic foresight allows him to identify opportunities for meaningful improvement, bridging gaps and fostering inclusion.

In addition to his project leadership, James plays a pivotal role in developing new business initiatives and cultivating valuable relationships with key clients, ensuring our organization remains at the forefront of the industry. Holding a Master’s degree in city and Regional Planning from the esteemed Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, James specializes in urban redevelopment and housing strategies. His academic achievements are further complemented by a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy from the University of Delaware, where he focused on Urban Policy, Planning, and Historic Preservation. This robust educational foundation, combined with his extensive hands-on experience, empowers him to effect meaningful change.

Project Manager

Nayeon is a passionate advocate for nonprofit organizations and municipal clients, tirelessly championing innovative housing development initiatives throughout the diverse landscape of New Jersey. In her multifaceted role, she expertly navigates the complexities of securing vital funding, conducting thorough and insightful site analyses, and utilizing sophisticated GIS-based evaluations to uncover the most promising development opportunities. With a solid foundation in urban planning and housing development, Nayeon has made significant contributions to transformative projects. Nayeon is responsible for leading projects in Camden, Salem, Newark and East Orange.

Holding a Master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from Rutgers University, Nayeon specializes in Community Development and Affordable Housing, and she also earned a B.S. in Urban Planning and Design. Her unique blend of expertise and hands-on experience equips her with a keen eye for detail and a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics of each project. Nayeon's remarkable ability to shift seamlessly between various roles and responsibilities enables her to adeptly meet the specific needs of each initiative. Nayeon plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission of creating sustainable, community-centered housing solutions that truly resonate with the lives of individuals and families in need.

Assistant Project Manager

Claire Williams joined Restrepo & Associates in 2025, driven by the growing demand for services that help municipalities meet their affordable housing goals. With a solid background in fair share planning from a well-regarded planning firm, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Claire is dedicated to identifying development opportunities for municipal governments and organizations, effectively managing projects, coordinating essential documentation, and facilitating the procurement of necessary approvals and funding. A magna cum laude graduate in Urban and Regional Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University, Claire is proficient in GIS mapping and has made notable contributions to various planning initiatives across New Jersey. Her significant work on transportation projects in Middlesex County has led to transformative improvements, particularly in bus and bike lane integration and enhanced bus services. Claire is actively involved in county planning meetings, where she contributes to discussions aimed at developing innovative project models. Her enthusiasm and commitment are likely to have a lasting impact on the future of affordable housing in New Jersey.