I AM the Key | 60th Anniversary
60 YearsOf Service
300+Adults Served Annually
19,000+Run for the Money Miles
$6M+Raised Through the Run
Our Story

Six Decades of Opportunity

Since 1966, the Key Training Center has been committed to ensuring that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities enjoy full human rights and equal opportunities to participate in community life.

What began with a small group of families and advocates grew from serving seven individuals into an organization serving more than 300 adults annually, grounded in kindness, love, dignity and respect.

Share Your Memories

Be Part of “I AM the Key”

If you’ve ever been part of the Key Center community, we’d love to hear your story. Share old photos, favorite memories or a short note about your connection to the Key.

Send Your Memories
60 Years of the Key

The People Who Made It Possible

From the earliest families and community supporters to today’s staff, volunteers, clients and partners, every chapter has helped shape the Key.

From the Archives

60 Years of History

A visual journey through the early people, places, programs and community traditions that built the Key Training Center.

1962 — A Movement Begins
1962 — A Movement Begins
1963 — Building Opportunity
1963 — Building Opportunity
1963 — Community Support
1963 — Community Support
Early Leadership
Early Leadership
Harry Van Nortwick
Harry Van Nortwick
Van Nortwick Drive
Van Nortwick Drive
The First Thrift Store
The First Thrift Store
1967 — Dedication
1967 — Dedication
The First Campus Building
The First Campus Building
1968 — Growing the Mission
1968 — Growing the Mission
Community Barbecues
Community Barbecues
Volunteers at the Heart
Volunteers at the Heart
1969 — Learning & Job Training
1969 — Learning & Job Training
1970 — A Community Cornerstone
1970 — A Community Cornerstone
Serving Hernando County
Serving Hernando County
Early Community Support
Early Community Support
Chet Cole's Leadership
Chet Cole’s Leadership
The Key 100 Club
The Key 100 Club
A Vision for Homes
A Vision for Homes
Community Traditions
Community Traditions
Holiday Memories
Holiday Memories
The Meeting That Started It
The Meeting That Started It
Community Giving
Community Giving
I AM the Key Stories

The People Behind the Mission

Celebrating independence, compassion, giving back and community through the voices of the people who make the Key what it is.

Jenny Emery

I AM the Key to Compassion and Support

For 15 years, Jenny Emery has been more than a Residential Services Supervisor overseeing seven group homes—she’s been family. Her work is deeply personal, and every day she brings patience, understanding and heartfelt support to the people she serves.

Chris Molling

I AM the Key to Community

As owner of DRC Sports and a Key Training Center Board member, Chris Molling’s connection began through Run for the Money and grew into a lifelong commitment. Through the Clean Air Bike Ride, he continues helping support programs that empower individuals to live full, meaningful lives.

Judy Peacock

I AM the Key to Giving Back

Judy Peacock and her late husband Robert represent the lasting legacy of volunteers whose compassion, service and commitment helped shape something truly special in Citrus County.

Amanda

Amanda’s Story: Everyone Can Be Part of the Key | I AM the Key

There are many ways to support the mission of the Key Training Center—and every contribution makes a difference. Amanda’s story is a reminder that everyone can be part of the Key and help create opportunities for the individuals we serve.

Matt

Writing His Own Story of Independence

Matt is the key to his independence. His journey reflects growth, determination and personal achievement as he continues building confidence, making choices and creating a life that reflects who he is.

Michael

Building Confidence, Living Independently

Michael’s journey is about growth and confidence. Every milestone shows what is possible through persistence, self-belief and opportunity.

Andy

Defining Independence on His Own Terms

Andy continues to shape his journey in his own unique way, reminding us that independence is personal, powerful and worth celebrating.

Tiffany

Living Her Independence Every Day

Tiffany’s journey reflects confidence, growth and possibility as she embraces opportunities and continues living life on her own terms.

Stephanie & Pat

Leading with Heart and Purpose

Stephanie and Pat are the key to compassion and support. Their kindness, patience and commitment help create meaningful, lasting change.

Jolene

The Heart of Compassion and Support

Jolene’s patience, kindness and unwavering commitment help individuals grow in confidence, independence and potential.

Jason

Leading with Compassion and Heart

Jason brings patience, kindness and genuine care into every moment, creating a space where individuals feel valued, encouraged and empowered to grow.

Chris

Compassion That Makes a Difference

Chris shows up each day with patience, kindness and a true commitment to those he serves, helping individuals build independence and discover their strengths.

Connie

Compassion That Changes Lives

Through her kindness, dedication and positive spirit, Connie makes a meaningful impact and helps turn everyday interactions into moments of encouragement, progress and possibility.

Melissa

The Power of Compassion in Action

Melissa embodies what it means to lead with compassion and support, turning everyday moments into opportunities for growth and achievement.

Cecelia

I AM the Key to Giving Back

Cecelia represents the volunteers whose compassion, generosity and willingness to serve help create meaningful experiences and new opportunities for the individuals supported by the Key.

Barbara

I AM the Key to Giving Back

Barbara’s continued dedication and encouragement are part of the caring community that has helped the Key empower individuals for six decades.

Sass with Class Cloggers

I AM the Key to Giving Back

Sass with Class Cloggers volunteered their talents and brought joy to the community—an example of how sharing time and talent can open doors and create opportunities.

Tim Smith

I AM the Key to Giving Back

Volunteers turn compassion into action. A special thank-you to Tim Smith for his dedication and time supporting Key Training Center.

William Morris

I AM the Key to Giving Back

A special thank-you to William Morris for his dedication and time supporting Key Training Center and helping create opportunities for the people we serve.

Pat Simmons

I AM the Key to Giving Back

Pat Simmons’ dedication and continued support reflect the heart of Key volunteers—sharing time, skills and kindness to make a difference.

Emma

I AM the Key to Giving Back

Emma’s dedication, generosity and continued support are part of the volunteer spirit that helps Key Training Center build a stronger, more caring community.

Keith Taylor

I AM the Key to Community

Supporters like Keith Taylor help the Key continue empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live full, meaningful and independent lives.

Barb

I AM the Key to Giving Back

Barb’s dedication and support are another example of compassion in action—helping open doors and create meaningful opportunities.

Ashley Eavey

I AM the Key to Community

As Director of Customer Engagement and Development at IMS Pharmacy, Ashley Eavey exemplifies what it means to invest in people and strengthen the community.

Nancy

I AM the Key to Giving Back

Nancy’s dedication, generosity and continued support reflect the volunteers who help open doors and transform lives throughout the Key community.

Michele Kimling

The Key to Making a Difference

Every donation to the Key Thrift Stores helps create opportunities. Michele Kimling’s family has a long connection to the Key, with years of shopping, donating and supporting the mission.

Your Story Is Part of Ours

Share Your Key Center Memories

Old photographs, favorite memories and personal stories are an important part of this anniversary. Help us celebrate the people who have shaped the Key Training Center over the years.

marketing@keytrainingcenter.org