Building on Faith - The Schomburg Center

On Wednesday June 3rd an intimate group of clergy, developers and community leaders gathered at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, for an invitation-only seminar on real estate development in the faith community. Sponsored by Benchmark Title Agency, “Building on Faith: Real Estate Development for the Faith Community”, was co-presented by Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI) and GoldsteinHall.

“The information shared here was invaluable,” said Derek Broomes, President and CEO of HCCI. “Houses of worship occupy some of the most valuable real estate in the City, and many of the pastors need assistance when interacting with the development community. This seminar empowered the clergy with much needed knowledge and insight”

Manhattan Borough President Gail Brewer served as guest speaker. The seminar consisted of two panels: “Development 101: From Vision to Bricks and Mortar” with guest speakers Jonathan Beuttler, Deputy Director, NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development, Rev. Dr. Julius Clay, Pastor, Williams Institutional CME Church; Craig Livingston, Managing Partner, Exact Capital, and moderator Malcolm A. Punter, Executive Vice President of HCCI; and “Building a Team: Builder, Architect, Attorney” with guest speakers Victor Body-Lawson, Principal, Body Lawson Associates, Matthew Hall, Partner, Goldstein Hall, Erick Keller Wala, Chairperson, Brisa Builders, and Bernie Carr, Senior Vice President for Affordable Housing, Benchmark Title Agency.