Share Your Key Center Memories - Be Part of 'I AM the Key'
Dear Friends,
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.
To celebrate our 60 year Anniversary, we’re launching our “I AM the Key” campaign—honoring the many individuals who have helped shape the Key Center over the years.
If you’ve ever been part of the Key Center community, we invite you to share your story! Send us: old photos, favorite memories, or a short note about your connection to Key Center.
Your experiences are an important part of our story, and we’d love to highlight them during this special year.
Please email marketing@keytrainingcenter.org to send your memories.
Thank you for being part of what makes the Key Center so special.
Warm regards, The Key Training Center Family
The Key Training Center was founded in 1966, and its history highlights the remarkable individuals and families who made it possible. Harry and Elsie Van Norwick were the driving force behind its creation, motivated by a desire for a better life for their child, described as “a dream realized by an earnest couple.” Mr. and Mrs. Skyler Orvis donated the original 40 acres located between Lecanto and Crystal River, which remains the site of the center today. Early support came from fundraisers, barbecues, and community events, while the first director, Robert Neil, helped guide the center in its beginnings.
The main campus road into Lecanto was named Van Norwick in 1968, honoring the family’s contributions. In 1969, students visited Homosassa Springs, and Beth Williams, one of the original students, remains part of the center today, attending the day program and living in a group home. The Key initially served seven individuals, growing to 20 by the 1970s.
In April 1971, Chet Cole became the second executive director, bringing vision, leadership, and entrepreneurial thinking that helped the Key evolve into what it is today. Early fundraising continued with barbecues and community events, and a thrift store opened in Crystal River in the early 1960s, a model that expanded to five retail stores — four in Citrus County and one in Wildwood.
The Run for the Money, launched in 1976, celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, raising $6,000 in its first year and now surpassing $6 million, logging over 19,000 miles — more than one lap around the United States. In 1978, the Key received a $1.86 million HUD loan to build six homes, marking the beginning of its residential program; today, 60 years later, there are 18 group homes and four apartment complexes serving 145 individuals.
Thanks to countless individuals, organizations, businesses, and clubs, the Key Training Center has grown from serving seven individuals to over 300 adults annually, offering a variety of day and residential services grounded in the cornerstones of kindness, love, dignity, and respect.
Did you know the first building on the Key Training Center’s Lecanto campus opened on February 13, 1967? 
That very first building served as a school and workshop, welcoming just seven individuals and offering training, support, and opportunity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Citrus County.
What began as a single building and a big dream—made possible through the donation of 40 acres of land by the Orvis family—has grown into a vibrant campus serving hundreds of individuals each year.
Nearly six decades later, the mission remains the same: helping individuals live full, meaningful, and independent lives through kindness, love, dignity, and respect.
As we celebrate 60 years of the Key Training Center, we’re proud to honor the humble beginnings that started it all right here in Lecanto. 
Chet Cole helped shape the heart of the Key Training Center for more than four decades. As Executive Director beginning in 1971, his vision and passion helped grow the Key into a place where individuals with developmental disabilities could live fuller, more independent lives.
For 60 years, the Key Training Center has empowered individuals to live full, meaningful, and independent lives.
Through opportunity, support, and community, The Center Training Center continues to unlock potential and show the world what independence truly looks like.
Join us as we celebrate our “I Am the Key” campaign—highlighting the people, stories, and moments that make the Key Training Center so special. Because together, we are the key. 
 Where community support began.
This powerful moment, captured on August 10, 1972, marks one of the earliest milestones in the Key Training Center’s journey.
Local businessman Ralph Rooks became the very first to pledge ongoing support—setting the tone for a community that would continue to step up, give back, and believe in the mission for decades to come. His name was the first engraved on the Key 100 Club plaque, symbolizing more than a donation… it represented trust, leadership, and heart.
Pictured left to right: Executive Director Chet Cole, Ralph Rooks, and Charlie Dean, who was serving as President of the organization at the time. Charlie Dean would go on to become a longtime Citrus County Sheriff from 1976 to 2007, and later serve in the Florida Legislature, including as a State Senator.
Moments like this laid the foundation for 60 years of opportunity, independence, and impact.
As we celebrate our I Am the Key campaign, we honor the people who believed from the very beginning—because together, we are the key.Â
On January 28, 1970, the Key Training Center was still in its early days in Crystal River—but even then, the community was stepping up in powerful ways.
During a special visit, U.S. Representative Bill Chappell presented a $400 check to Principal Mrs. S.R. Miller Jr., helping fund “teaching machines” for students with developmental disabilities. At a time when resources were limited and a federal grant was winding down, support like this made all the difference.
Back then, the focus was on helping students become “trainable and educable” through hands-on skills like sewing, woodworking, and horticulture—building independence one step at a time.
This photo also captures familiar faces from our history, including Josh Spooner and Beth Williams—one of our original students who is still part of the Key Center family today. 
From those humble beginnings to today, we’ve grown into an organization serving hundreds of adults through residential programs and our network of thrift stores—but our mission remains the same.
 Empowering independence. Changing lives.
Volunteers have always been at the heart of the Key Training Center story.  Back in February 1968, community members came together at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Leroy Rooks Post 4252 in Hernando to cook and serve a barbecue chicken dinner fundraiser supporting the Citrus County Association for Retarded Children—the early foundation of the Key Training Center. Local leaders, including the VFW State Commander, County Tax Collector, Reverend Harry Paschall, and many dedicated volunteers, pitched in to make the dinner a success.
From that first grassroots effort to today, volunteers turn hope into action, unlocking opportunities for every client. From lending a hand to sharing talents, every moment of giving makes a difference.
A huge thank you to all Key volunteers—past and present—and everyone who continues to show up and give back. You make our community shine!Â
Long before today’s programs and services, the Key was already bringing the community together—like this barbecue and plant sale featured in this vintage clipping. Moments like these helped plant the seeds for something truly special. 
 I AM the Key to Community.
Every gathering, every volunteer, every act of support—then and now—opens the door to opportunity and connection.
From 1966 to today, it’s the people who make the difference. The supporters. The volunteers. The neighbors who show up.Â
Because when you give your time, your heart, or your voice…
you are the Key.Â
Long before today’s programs and services, the Key was already bringing the community together—like this barbecue and plant sale featured in this vintage clipping. Moments like these helped plant the seeds for something truly special.  I AM the Key to Community.
Every gathering, every volunteer, every act of support—then and now—opens the door to opportunity and connection.
From 1966 to today, it’s the people who make the difference. The supporters. The volunteers. The neighbors who show up.Â
Because when you give your time, your heart, or your voice…
you are the Key.Â
Before the growth… there was a beginning.Â
In April 1968, a small newspaper announcement marked a big moment—the upcoming grand opening of “The Key” Training Center.
On May 3, community members gathered on State Road 44 to celebrate the start of something truly special. The new center, built on 47 acres, was created with a vision: to provide education, training, and opportunity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
At the time, just six children were being served—but the dream was much bigger. Plans were already in place to expand programs in academics, job training, life skills, and more.
What started as a single building and a handful of students has grown into a lasting legacy of empowerment, independence, and community.
As we celebrate 60 years, we honor those early moments—the vision, the courage, and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to thrive.
Did you know the first Key Training Center thrift store opened in 1965 in downtown Crystal River? 
What began as a small fundraising effort to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities quickly became something much bigger. The community embraced the store, helping it grow into the network of Key Training Center thrift stores that so many people know and love today.
Over the years, the Crystal River store expanded and moved to new locations to serve even more shoppers and supporters. But the heart of it all has always stayed the same — every purchase and donation helps support programs that empower individuals to live full, meaningful, and independent lives.
As we celebrate 60 years of the Key Training Center, we’re grateful for every shopper, donor, volunteer, and supporter who has helped make this journey possible. Because together, we are the Key.
A glimpse into our roots—and a reminder that I AM the KeyÂ
On June 29, 1968, neighbors came together for a community barbecue to support what would become the Key Training Center. There was food on the grill, laughter in the air, and a shared belief that together, they could create something meaningful.
That same spirit lives on today through our I AM the Key Campaign—because it’s always been the people who make the difference.
Every supporter. Every family. Every staff member. Every advocate.
You are the Key.
As we celebrate 60 years, we honor the moments that started it all and the community that continues to move us forward. For 60 years, we’ve been unlocking potential, creating opportunities, and building a stronger community—together.
Moments like this helped build the Key Training Center.  Do you recognize anyone in this photo? Let us know in the comments!
This early holiday program from the late ’60s or ’70s reflects a powerful legacy of inclusion, connection, and community.
As we celebrate 60 years, we honor the people behind the scenes who made it all possible. Join us for our I Am the Key campaign—because together, we are the key.Â
Because being the Key means believing in ability.
Being the Key means creating opportunity.
Being the Key means opening doors—for everyone.
 Honoring a Legacy That Helped Shape Our MissionIn 1963, the road leading into the Key Training Center was officially named Van Nortwick Drive by resolution of the Citrus County Commission—recognizing a legacy of advocacy, compassion, and commitment to children with special needs.
Van Nortwick was instrumental in helping establish opportunities for individuals who deserved access to education, support, and a brighter future. That vision continues to guide everything we do today.
Every step taken on Van Nortwick Drive is a reminder of where we started—and the lives we continue to impact.Â
Floyd Christian, State Superintendent of Schools, who noted he had dedicated over 100 buildings but had never seen a small community do so much for one group.
Mr. & Mrs. Schuyler Orvis, the generous donors of the first 30 acres of land.
Mrs. Flo St. John, who sparked the mission by raising funds through her moving pictures of the 1920s “Golden Age of Comedy.”
Join us as we celebrate our “I Am the Key” campaign, highlighting the people, stories, and moments that make the Key Training Center so special—from our beginnings to the incredible stories of today. Because together, we are the key.Â
Writing His Own Story of Independence
Matt is the key to his independence—and every day, he’s showing what that truly means.
His journey is one of growth, determination, and personal achievement. With the right support around him, Matt continues to build confidence, make choices, and create a life that reflects who he is and what he’s capable of.
For 60 years, the Key Training Center has been proud to walk alongside individuals like Matt—but it’s his drive and spirit that make his story so powerful.
Celebrate with us through our I Am the Key campaign—because independence starts with individuals like Matt.
#TheKeyToIndependence #KeyTrainingCenter #60YearsStrong #IAmTheKey #Key60 #WeAreTheKey
Stephanie & Pat: Leading with Heart and Purpose
Stephanie and Pat are the key to compassion and support—and their impact is felt in every life they touch.
They show up each day with kindness, patience, and a deep commitment to the individuals they serve. Their ability to encourage, uplift, and believe in others is what helps create real, lasting change.
For 60 years, staff like Stephanie and Pat have been the driving force behind our mission—quietly making a difference that speaks volumes.
Join us in celebrating I Am the Key—because their compassion helps unlock potential every day.
#KeyTrainingCenter #IAmTheKey #60YearsStrong #Key60 #WeAreTheKey #TheKeyToCompassionSupport
Building Confidence, Living Independently
Michael is the key to his independence—and his journey is all about growth and confidence.
Every day, Michael continues to reach new milestones, showing what’s possible through persistence and self-belief. His story is a powerful reminder that independence is built step by step, choice by choice.
For 60 years, the Key Training Center has supported individuals on this path—but it’s people like Michael who bring that mission to life.
Be part of our I Am the Key campaign—because independence begins with individuals like Michael.
#TheKeyToIndependence #KeyTrainingCenter #60YearsStrong #IAmTheKey #Key60 #WeAreTheKey
Unlocking His Independence
Michael is the key to his independence—and his journey is one of growth, determination, and confidence. Each day, he continues to take meaningful steps forward, showing what’s possible when opportunity meets perseverance.
For 60 years, the Key Training Center has empowered individuals to live full, meaningful, and independent lives—and Michael is a shining example of why that mission matters.
Through our I Am the Key campaign, we celebrate stories like Michael’s—because together, we are the key. 💙
#TheKeyToIndependence #KeyTrainingCenter #60YearsStrong #IAmTheKey #Key60 #WeAreTheKey 🔑
Living Her Independence Every Day
Tiffany is the key to her independence—and her journey is a powerful reflection of confidence, growth, and possibility. She continues to make strides, embrace opportunities, and show what it truly means to live life on her own terms.
For 60 years, the Key Training Center has supported individuals in building meaningful, independent lives—but it’s people like Tiffany who bring that mission to life in such an inspiring way.
Through our I Am the Key campaign, we celebrate individuals like Tiffany—because their stories remind us that together, we are the key. 💙
#TheKeyToIndependence #KeyTrainingCenter #60YearsStrong #IAmTheKey #Key60 #WeAreTheKey 🔑
The Heart Behind Compassion and Support
Our staff are the key to compassion and support—and they bring that to life in countless ways every single day.
Through patience, understanding, and genuine care, they create an environment where individuals feel valued, encouraged, and empowered. Their dedication is what turns everyday moments into meaningful progress.
For 60 years, their commitment has been the foundation of everything we do—and the reason so many lives have been changed.
Celebrate the people behind the mission through our I AM the Key campaign—because their compassion is what makes it all possible.
#KeyTrainingCenter #60YearsStrong #IAmTheKey #Key60 #WeAreTheKey #TheKeyToCompassionSupport
Defining Independence on His Own Terms
Andy is the key to his independence—and he continues to shape that journey in his own unique way.
Each step he takes reflects his determination, growth, and ability to turn opportunities into meaningful accomplishments. Andy reminds us that independence isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s personal, powerful, and worth celebrating.
At the Key Training Center, we’ve spent 60 years supporting journeys like Andy’s—but the success belongs to him.
Join us in celebrating I Am the Key—where individuals like Andy show us what independence truly looks like.
#TheKeyToIndependence #KeyTrainingCenter #60YearsStrong #IAmTheKey #Key60 #WeAreTheKey
The Heart of Compassion and Support
Jolene is the key to compassion and support—and her impact is felt in every life she touches.
For 60 years, dedicated staff like Jolene have been the backbone of everything we do, empowering individuals to grow in confidence, independence, and potential. Her patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment help turn everyday moments into meaningful progress.
It’s because of people like Jolene that goals feel within reach and individuals are supported every step of the way.
Celebrate with us through our I Am the Key campaign—because it’s her compassion that helps make it all possible.
#KeyTrainingCenter #IAmTheKey #60YearsStrong #Key60 #WeAreTheKey #TheKeyToCompassionSupport
Leading with Compassion and Heart
Jason is the key to compassion and support—bringing patience, kindness, and genuine care into every moment. He creates a space where individuals feel valued, encouraged, and empowered to grow. It’s often the smallest gestures he makes that lead to the biggest breakthroughs.
For 60 years, dedicated staff like Jason have been the foundation of our mission—turning compassion into action each and every day.
Join us in celebrating our I Am the Key campaign—because people like Jason are what make it all possible.
#KeyTrainingCenter #IAmTheKey #60YearsStrong #Key60 #WeAreTheKey #TheKeyToCompassionSupport
Compassion That Makes a Difference
Chris is the key to compassion and support—showing up each day with patience, kindness, and a true commitment to those he serves. His care helps create a space where individuals feel supported, confident, and encouraged to reach their goals.
For 60 years, dedicated staff like Chris have been the heart of our mission—helping individuals build independence, discover their strengths, and achieve more than they thought possible.
Today, we celebrate the people behind the scenes who make it all happen.
Join us in our I Am the Key campaign—because it’s their compassion that opens the door to opportunity. Together, we are the key. 💙
#KeyTrainingCenter #IAmTheKey #60YearsStrong #Key60 #WeAreTheKey #TheKeyToCompassionSupport 🔑
