This episode of the Nonprofit Report features Five Keys, an organization focused on education, workforce development, and reentry services for individuals impacted by incarceration and systemic barriers. Through innovative programs, Five Keys provides opportunities for people to complete their education, gain job skills, and successfully reintegrate into their communities.
Guests:
- Steve Good, President and CEO, Five Keys
- Elyese Graham, COO & Executive VP, Five Keys
- Sunny Schwartz, Founder, Five Keys
Interview by: Mark Oppenheim
Key Points
- Five Keys was founded to provide education and support to individuals involved in the justice system, particularly those who have been incarcerated.
- The organization operates charter schools, adult education programs, and workforce training initiatives designed to remove barriers to opportunity.
- Programs are often delivered in nontraditional settings, including jails and community locations, making education more accessible.
- Five Keys emphasizes a trauma-informed approach, recognizing the challenges many participants have faced and providing supportive environments for learning and growth.
- The organization’s model focuses on second chances, helping individuals build stability through education, employment, and supportive services.
Other Points on Five Keys
Five Keys was created to address gaps in education and opportunity for people impacted by the justice system. Many individuals in these programs have faced barriers such as incarceration, housing instability, and limited access to traditional education. By meeting people where they are, the organization provides pathways to complete diplomas, gain skills, and move toward self-sufficiency.
A defining feature of Five Keys’ work is its delivery model. Programs are offered inside jails as well as in community-based settings, making education accessible to individuals who might not otherwise have the opportunity to participate. This approach allows students to begin or continue their education regardless of their circumstances.
The organization also prioritizes a trauma-informed approach to education. Recognizing that many participants have experienced significant challenges, Five Keys creates supportive environments that focus on trust, respect, and personal growth. This model helps students build confidence and remain engaged in their educational journey.
Beyond education, Five Keys connects participants with broader support systems that promote long-term success. Workforce development, housing assistance, and reentry services help individuals transition back into their communities. By addressing both immediate and long-term needs, the organization supports lasting change for individuals and their families.