Jeriana Finds New Skills and a Chance To Lead

When Jeriana Gaines began her summer internship with Operation Pathways, she wasn’t sure what to expect. By the end, the Hollybush Gardens resident from Glassboro, New Jersey, had gained skills in money management and property care, a better understanding of how to support herself and others, and second-place honors in the Stephen M. Green Youth Real Estate Awards.

Her NHPF mentor, Camden Carpenter, praised her thorough planning and focus on resident services, noting the empathy and commitment she brought to addressing real community needs.

“That project helped me learn that something people have overlooked can become valuable with a little vision and effort,” Jeriana told guests at the Stronger Together Gala.

Jeriana credited Hollybush Gardens Resident Services Coordinator Nadine Worlds for believing in her and guiding her, and thanked her family and friends for their support. She also thanked the people behind the internship for giving young people a chance to learn and lead.

“This summer taught me that when someone gives you a chance, it’s worth making the most of it,” she said.

Where Jeriana Gaines lives matters.