3Keys Staff Spotlight: Gerry Richardson, Asset Manager

At The 3Keys, our mission to end chronic homelessness in Atlanta is made possible by dedicated staff who bring both passion and expertise to the work. One of those people is Gerry Richardson, our Asset Manager, whose steady leadership helps ensure that our properties are safe, functional, and truly feel like home for residents.

Gerry’s day-to-day work is anything but routine. As Asset Manager, he oversees all five 3Keys properties, coordinating maintenance, managing upkeep and supply needs, and working closely with maintenance technicians and property managers. His role also brings him into regular contact with residents – an aspect of the job he values deeply. “No day is ever the same,” Gerry says. “That’s one of the things I really enjoy about this role.”

Though he now works on the asset management side, Gerry is a social worker by training. He holds a Master of Social Work degree and brings more than 25 years of experience developing and administering social service programs. For two decades, he worked with Fulton County Government, managing and building homeless service programs across the county before transitioning into the nonprofit sector about six years ago.

In thinking about his career so far, Gerry says the most meaningful part is working with people. “Being able to impact the lives of individuals who have been in disadvantaged or less fortunate situations – that’s always been my passion,” he explains. “Helping people reach a level of stability, independence, sobriety, or self-sufficiency is what has driven my work over the years.”

That people-centered approach continues to guide him at 3Keys. Gerry appreciates the autonomy and flexibility his role provides, allowing him to move between properties, interact with residents, and address issues in real time. “I’m not someone who likes to be stationary,” he laughs. “This job lets me be out in the field, seeing what’s happening, and making sure we’re meeting residents’ needs from a safety and maintenance standpoint.”

Group photo of The 3Keys’ staff, who work tirelessly everyday to end chronic homelessness in Atlanta. Gerry is pictured second from the left.

Gerry also credits the strength of the 3Keys team as a crucial part of what makes the organization successful. “We all come from different backgrounds and bring different perspectives,” he says. “That can be challenging at times, but what sets this team apart is that we push through together.” He points to a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility, where staff step in wherever they’re needed to support one another and the mission. “We see a need, we jump in, and we get it done.”

Over the years, Gerry has formed lasting relationships with people he’s served – connections that underscore his belief that housing work is ultimately about human connection. He recalls one client he met early in his career who remains part of his life today, still calling when major health or life challenges arise. “It reminds me that people are people, regardless of where they come from or what they’ve been through,” Gerry reflects. “That perspective has stayed with me throughout my career.”

With degrees in criminal justice and social work, a certificate in theology, and extensive experience managing residential treatment and transitional housing programs, Gerry brings a blend of operational skill and compassion to his role. At 3Keys, that combination helps ensure our properties are not just well-maintained buildings, but stable foundations for residents working toward long-term housing and wellness.

We’re grateful for Gerry’s leadership, flexibility, and unwavering commitment to people – and proud to have him as part of the 3Keys team.

Gerry is pictured in the back middle of this photo with the staff and board members of The 3Keys at Cheers for a Cause 2024.