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Program Leadership

Sharrah Gardner

Founder & President, Gems to Jewels Inc.

Program Director, Keys to Stabilize

New Jersey–Licensed Real Estate Professional (License #1972598)

Real Estate & Property Workforce Pathway

Program Overview

Keys to Stabilize is a workforce development and economic mobility program operated by Gems to Jewels Inc. The program prepares justice-impacted and underserved individuals for stable employment and long-term opportunity within the real estate and property ecosystem.

Rather than focusing solely on real estate licensure, Keys to Stabilize provides hands-on exposure to real estate–adjacent careers that support housing stability, community reintegration, and wealth-building pathways. Participants gain practical experience, professional skills, and industry insight that translate directly into employment, apprenticeship, or entrepreneurship opportunities.

Who the Program Serves


   •    Justice-impacted individuals and returning citizens
   •    Youth and young adults ages 16–25
   •    Individuals receiving public assistance
   •    Underserved community members seeking stable career pathways
   •    Individuals interested in real estate–related careers without immediate licensure

Program Structure


   •    Length: 8–12 weeks (cohort-based)
   •    Format: In-person or hybrid
   •    Schedule: Part-time (workforce-friendly)
   •    Compensation: Paid or stipended placements as funding allows

Core Training Areas

Participants receive hands-on exposure to:
   •    Property management and maintenance operations
   •    Housing court and tenant-landlord processes
   •    Title searches, permits, and municipal systems
   •    Real estate administration and transaction support
   •    Housing stability, financial literacy, and ownership readiness
   •    Wholesaling and real estate support services (advanced cohorts)

What Participants Gain


   •    Transferable workforce and professional skills
   •    Real-world exposure to real estate systems and careers
   •    Career readiness, resume support, and job placement assistance
   •    Housing and financial literacy foundations
   •    Mentorship and industry networking opportunities
   •    Clear pathways to employment, apprenticeship, or entrepreneurship

Program Outcomes


   •    Increased job readiness and employability
   •    Improved housing stability and financial awareness
   •    Access to sustainable, career-track employment
   •    Reduced barriers to reentry and recidivism
   •    Strengthened community economic mobility

Program Partners

Keys to Stabilize collaborates with:
   •    Property managers and housing providers
   •    Real estate professionals and firms
   •    Workforce development agencies
   •    Community-based organizations
   •    Legal and housing support partners

Get Involved

Interested in participating, partnering, or sponsoring a cohort?

One-Line Version (For Menus, Flyers, Grants)

Keys to Stabilize is a real estate and property workforce pathway providing justice-impacted and underserved individuals with hands-on training, housing literacy, and career opportunities that support long-term stability.

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