We’re so lucky at NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley to have a staff of hardworking, committed team-players who work tirelessly at our mission of building affordable housing and enriching community life.
In this series, you’ll get to know the people behind the work.
Tell us about yourself.
Hi, my name is Christian Caldarone and I live in Lincoln, RI with my wife and two kids. Personally, I am deeply committed to my family and friends, to my work at NWBRV, and to creating music.
What do you do at NWBRV?
I am the Deputy Director and NWBRV and my primary responsibility is as Director of Asset Management. In my role as DD, I help with administrative responsibilities that impact the whole organization including IT, Finance, Policies and Procedures, and occasionally grant writing. As Director of Asset Management I am the owner’s representative responsible for all existing, occupied residential units in our 439-unit residential portfolio. I also oversee all of our two third-party property management companies, manage the facilities of our self-owned and managed buildings, as well as manage our growing commercial portfolio.
How long have you been working with NWBRV, and how did you start working with the organization?
I have been working with NWBRV since February, 2011. I previously worked as Real Estate Project Manager and acting Executive Director for a small community development corporation in Providence prior to moving to NeighborWorks. The affordable housing industry in RI is small, so I got to know many of the NWBRV staff over the years and when the opportunity arose to work with them it seemed a natural fit.
What inspires you to do this work?
I am driven by the values instilled in me by my parents and grandparents to work hard at helping make the world a more just and equitable place. I am constantly trying to learn and expand my own perspective, so you can say that my personal values are consistent with NWBRV’s of inclusion and open-mindedness. Because my personal values and NeighborWorks’ mission are so aligned, it makes the work personally fulfilling. That is what inspires me.
What is your proudest accomplishment working with NWBRV?
I have many things that I am personally proud of in my time here. Recently, what I am most proud of is the extensive work we’ve done since the onset of COVID to support our residents and connect them with so many available resources. Due to this work, our residents have remained in their homes. This effort has included a team of many hard-working colleagues that went above and beyond during this exceptionally difficult time. Being part of the team that helped so many stay in their home is definitely something that makes me feel proud to be part of NWBRV.
