DONALD CHAIKEN

Davidon Homes

Donald Chaiken, a native of New York City who grew up in Miami, Florida, graduated with top honors from the College of Business at the University of Florida. He practiced public accounting for 12 years and held CPA certificates in Florida and California. 

In 1970, Donald transitioned into real estate development by joining a large Northern California company involved in the development of housing, shopping centers, and light industrial and commercial office complexes. 

Donald owned and operated Davidon Homes, one of the largest privately owned real estate development companies in Northern California. Davidon has historically constructed and sold over 7000 single-family homes, apartments, and condominium complexes across California and Northern Nevada, with ongoing projects in the East and North Bays. 

In addition to his career achievements, Donald Chaiken was known for his philanthropic efforts. In 2021, the Donald and Carole Chaiken Foundation, named in honor of his late wife, awarded a $2.5 million grant to the California Homebuilding Foundation in support of its Building Industry Technology Academy (BITA), a hands-on construction industry training program in over sixty high schools throughout California. This grant aims to enhance resources for construction training, mentorship, internships, and employment opportunities within the building and construction industry. 

“I feel very fortunate to have spent 50 years of my life in homebuilding, a business I love,” Donald once said. “By contributing to the BITA program, I hope to generate interest among young adults in our industry and help them develop the skills needed for success. It's one of the best ways I know to express gratitude to our industry for the many blessings it has brought my family and me over the years.” 

Donald Chaiken resided in Lafayette, California, until his passing in May of 2023. Donald’s life will forever inspire and be celebrated by his three daughters and their spouses, and his four grandchildren. He leaves an admirable legacy of strength and generosity.