PORTLAND, Maine – Community Housing of Maine (CHOM) announced that its Board of Directors has selected Kyra Walker as Executive Director, following her service as Interim Executive Director and prior leadership roles with the organization. 

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CHOM is an experienced affordable and supportive housing organization serving communities across Maine and currently providing housing for more than 1,300 residents, including individuals and families who have experienced homelessness and housing instability.

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Walker holds a master’s degree in Public Policy and Organizational Management from the Muskie School of Public Service and has more than 25 years of experience in affordable housing and nonprofit leadership. Throughout her career, Kyra’s work has centered on ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to safe, stable, and affordable housing. She assumes the role at a time when Maine communities continue to face significant housing challenges, including affordability pressures, housing shortages, and growing demand for housing stability and supportive services.

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As Executive Director, Walker will lead CHOM with a focus on strengthening resident well-being, building meaningful partnerships, supporting staff, and advancing the organization’s mission of creating communities where individuals and families can thrive.

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“Kyra brings an exceptional combination of housing expertise, strategic vision, and people-centered leadership to this role,” said Jennifer Putnam, President of CHOM’s Board of Directors. “She understands affordable and supportive housing from every angle – from development and operations to long-term stewardship, resident success, and community impact. Just as importantly, she is a collaborative leader who works alongside staff and partners with humility, dedication, and a deep commitment to the people CHOM serves.”

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Walker previously served as CHOM’s Chief Operating Officer and returned earlier this year to serve as Interim Executive Director during the organization’s leadership transition. In her previous role, she helped guide the growth and long-term management of CHOM’s housing portfolio, overseeing approximately $175 million in residential real estate assets while helping strengthen the organization’s ability to provide high-quality affordable and supportive housing. Her extensive experience across development, operations, and long-term housing stewardship has made her a respected leader in Maine’s housing sector.

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Walker is recognized for a leadership style that combines strategic vision with a hands-on, collaborative approach, emphasizing strong partnerships, responsiveness, and keeping mission and community impact central to organizational decision-making.

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“CHOM’s mission and the residents we serve have always been deeply meaningful to me,” said Walker. “Housing is about people. It’s about safety, opportunity, and having a place to call home. I’m honored to step into this role and continue building on CHOM’s strong foundation. I look forward to working alongside our staff, residents, board members, and partners in support of the work CHOM does every day.”

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Founded in 1993, CHOM develops, owns, and maintains affordable and supportive housing communities across Maine, pairing high-quality housing with collaborative partnerships and advocacy efforts that foster dignity, opportunity, and community inclusion.

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