Founder

Cheryl Gandy, a native of Buffalo, New York City, is a prominent figure in the legal and advocacy spheres, particularly within the Greater East Orange community. She earned her Juris Doctorate from the University at Buffalo, followed by a Master of Laws from Harvard Law School. Additionally, she holds a Master's in Public Administration from the John F. Kennedy School at Harvard University.

Throughout her career, Cheryl has been dedicated to leveraging her legal expertise to champion the rights of the disenfranchised. As a seasoned securities attorney, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her advocacy work, particularly in the realm of housing rights and community development.

As a proud resident of East Orange, Cheryl co-founded the Greater East Orange Tenants Association, where she serves as a driving force behind its mission to improve housing conditions and promote homeownership opportunities for low-income individuals in the region. Her passion for social justice and community empowerment is evident in her active involvement in city hall meetings and her contributions to crafting policies aimed at addressing housing challenges within East Orange.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Cheryl is known for her compassionate nature and her willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need. To know Cheryl is to have a caring big sister figure, always ready to offer her time, energy, and expertise to support and uplift others.

With her unwavering dedication and commitment to social change, Cheryl Gandy continues to make a profound impact on the lives of individuals and families in East Orange and beyond, leaving behind a legacy of empowerment, advocacy, and community solidarity.

Co-Founder

Leicha Richardson, a dedicated advocate and community leader, has been at the forefront of social change and empowerment in East Orange, New Jersey. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Morgan State University, where her passion for social justice and community engagement was ignited.

Building upon her undergraduate studies, Leicha pursued advanced education, earning two Master's degrees from Queens College of CUNY City College of New York, one in Social Sciences and another in Urban Development. Currently, she is on the path to receiving her Doctorate in Law and Policy from Northeastern University, expected to be completed in 2026.

Leicha's journey in advocacy began during her tenure as President of the East Orange Tenants Association, where she served for four years. In this role, she actively fought for tenants' rights and worked tirelessly to improve housing conditions for residents in East Orange.

A proud mother of two exceptional young adults, Leicha draws inspiration from her family to fuel her advocacy efforts. Known for her outspoken and determined nature, she is a force to be reckoned with in the pursuit of positive change and community support.

Leicha's commitment to nurturing and empowering her community is evident in her unwavering dedication to East Orange. She is a strong advocate for social justice, equity, and inclusivity, working tirelessly to create a better future for all residents.

Through her leadership, Leicha Richardson continues to be a driving force in the Greater East Orange Tenants Association, leaving an indelible mark on the community and paving the way for a brighter, more equitable future for East Orange and its residents.

Simone Jelks-Bandison is a distinguished real estate professional recognized for her exceptional achievements and dedication to her clients. As the 2020 Rookie of the Year and a proud member of the Million Dollar Club, Simone has quickly become a standout in the industry. Her success is built on steadfast commitment to superior service, earning the respect and admiration of her peers and clients alike.

With almost a decade of residency in the area, Simone possesses unparalleled familiarity with the local market, providing her clients with significant advantages in their real estate endeavors. Specializing in everything from first-time home ownership to investment properties, Simone is a trusted advisor who offers invaluable guidance and insight to help clients achieve their personal and financial goals.

Simone's professional journey is marked by a strong work ethic instilled early in her career, resulting in accolades and awards for her outstanding performance. Beyond her real estate achievements, Simone is deeply engaged in her community through volunteerism and advocacy, demonstrating a genuine concern for others' well-being.

A devoted mother of two and an advocate for education, Simone is actively involved in her children's school activities and is a proud alumna of Brooklyn Friends School. Her diverse background includes studies in social work, fine arts, and a pursuit of medical certifications, reflecting her multidimensional approach to life and career.

Simone's commitment to excellence extends beyond her professional endeavors; she has served on various boards and committees, including the East Orange Chamber of Commerce and the Essex County Ethics Committee. Her compassion, work ethic, and community engagement make Simone Jelks-Bandison not only a top-tier real estate professional but also a respected leader in her community.