Ray Ocasio III

Co-Founder/Strategy

Ray Ocasio III is the founder of OIKIA Development Company, driven by his deep understanding of affordable housing and housing inequities. He inherited his passion for creating positive change in the housing sector from his father, who led affordable housing initiatives in developing countries such as Bolivia, Peru, Jamaica, Guatemala, Honduras and in the United States. Witnessing similar inequities both abroad and in the United States, Ray developed a strong commitment to addressing housing challenges and promoting equitable solutions.

With over 20 years of development experience, Ray has led diverse teams in the successful creation of millions of square feet globally. As a seasoned real estate executive, he specializes in complex development structures, including industrial, manufacturing, Healthcare, and mixed-use projects. At OIKIA, Ray leverages his inclusive leadership style, extensive development and intergovernmental experience, as well as his deep understanding of entitlements, zoning, and incentives to bring the company's pioneering vision to reality.

Ray began his career in politics and public service, working for the Manhattan Borough President, where he focused on economic and health policy. He further honed his skills while working closely with Hillary Rodham Clinton during her 2000 senate campaign and as her executive assistant in the United States Senate.

Transitioning to the private sector, Ray has provided support to numerous Fortune 100 Companies, leading efforts in master planning, design and construction, workplace strategy, and real estate asset acquisition and disposition. In his previous role as the Managing director of project development services (PDS) at Cushman & Wakefield, Ray led teams in the development of projects throughout the tri-state region. From 2010 to 2016, he oversaw the strategic and tactical implementation of Gulfstream Aerospace corporation's facilities master plan (FMP), successfully modernizing and expanding their portfolio by over 2.6 million square feet, representing a remarkable 145% growth and totaling more than $500 million in value. Throughout his career, Ray has championed the Development of LEED, WELL, and Fitwel building certifications, prioritizing energy efficiencies and utility cost reductions, even in challenging manufacturing and industrial Environments.

Ray Ocasio III's extensive expertise, combined with his passion for affordable housing and sustainable development, makes him a driving force in OIKIA development company's mission to create healthy and equitable communities. With a deep-rooted understanding of Housing challenges and a proven track record in leading complex projects, Ray is committed to making a positive impact on housing inequality, energy poverty, and environmental justice.

Ray Ocasio II

Community Engagement

Raymond Ocasio II is a highly esteemed community leader and advisor with over five decades of experience in community development and affordable housing. In his role at the Cooperative Housing Foundation (CHF), Raymond provides strategic guidance, organizational development, technical assistance, training, and financial support to non-profits and governments entities. Raymond's International contributions include his role as Country Director for Honduras and Guatemala at the CHF, where he successfully implemented housing and community upgrading programs, constructing 3,500 units of low-cost housing and providing invaluable technical and administrative support to community-based organizations. In Jamaica, he advised US AID, the Ministry of Housing and Construction and the Jamaican Mortgage Bank with “Sites and Services” programs in marginalized and squatter communities.

Recently, Raymond served as the executive director of La Casa de Don Pedro, a prominent community-based development organization in Newark, New Jersey. Here he championed a comprehensive range of services for low-moderate-income neighborhoods, including early childhood education, workforce development, and home energy assistance. He also spearheaded transformative community development initiatives, revitalizing abandoned housing, developing affordable housing options, and establishing essential community facilities. Under his visionary leadership, the organization experienced remarkable programmatic and organizational growth, expanding its budget from $3 million to $26 million and increasing its staff to 280 members. Raymond's leadership and resilience were especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when he swiftly adapted La Casa's operations to remote and virtual services. Despite the challenges, he ensured that essential services addressing food and housing insecurities remained available to those in need. Raymond's tireless advocacy for social justice, and his commitment to uplifting vulnerable populations has earned him widespread recognition.

With a deep commitment to community empowerment, Raymond actively participated and continues in various influential boards and organizations. He has contributed his expertise to the NJ Housing and Community Development Network, National Community Development Network, NJ Citizen Action, several banking community advisory committees, Ramapo College, St. Michael Hospital, Leadership Newark, and many others. His expertise and dedication has made a significant impact on communities and individuals across the nation and overseas.