Hat's Off Fashion Show 2026
Dearest Gentle Reader, One simply had to remove one’s hat—preferably something feathered and fabulous—for the most enchanting affair of the season. On Sunday, March 1, 2026, the esteemed Key Training Center hosted its Annual Hat’s Off Fashion Show at the ever-gracious Chet Cole Life Enrichment Center, and what a spectacle it was. The afternoon unfolded in a parade of plumes, brims, and bold imagination, as guests arrived adorned in their most ambitious millinery. Fashion and philanthropy danced together most delightfully, with community luminaries Rachel Rice-Baham, Ashley Baker, Melissa Brannen, Christy Bryant, Hillary Dube, Karla Hernandez, Vicki Sawyer-Lindo, and Angel Vincent taking to the runway. They showcased the latest treasures from The Cotton Club and Labels Fashions for Less—proving that style, when paired with purpose, was quite unstoppable. Yet the true stars of the day were the remarkable Key clients—Danny Lambert, Eric Savoy, Cruz Geissinger, Jessica Harh, Tina Renwick, and Megan Lemond—who joined in the festivities with charm and confidence befitting royalty. More than 100 auction items tempted eager bidders, while live and silent cake auctions stirred spirited competition (for what is society without a little sugar and suspense?). The incomparable Josh Wooten commanded the live auction with flair, ensuring generosity flowed as freely as the applause. And now, dear reader, the figure that set all tongues wagging: a net total of $21,841.88 was raised in support of the Center’s vital programs. One dares say, generosity had never looked so fashionable. Prizes were bestowed for the Most Creative Hat—though in truth, selecting but one among such daring creations must have been the season’s greatest challenge. No elegant affair would have been complete without indulgence, and gratitude was extended to the Dessert Sponsors whose sweet offerings elevated the day to near-perfection: Key Center Family Connections, Crystal River Women’s Club, and Inverness Women’s Club. Their confections ensured the afternoon ended on the most delicious note imaginable. Until the next grand occasion, I remained yours in scandal and style.
Learning how to stay bite-free!
The Key Training Center recently got an inside look at how Citrus County keeps mosquitoes under control — and it was such a cool, hands-on experience!
During the Mosquito Control Tour, we learned simple ways to prevent and protect ourselves from mosquitoes at home, watched a presentation on the county’s control methods, and even explored the facility’s lab, equipment, and helicopters used in the field. Talk about impressive!
Best of all, the tour is free and open to the community — adults and kids alike. It’s a great way to see the science and hard work that helps keep our county safe and comfortable year-round.
Thank you, Citrus County Mosquito Control, for an educational and fun day! 
#KeyTrainingCenter #CommunityLearning #MosquitoControl #CitrusCounty
Big thank you to Michele Rose, Realtor with Keller Williams Realty Elite Partners II, for spending time with our group from the Key Training Center!
She gave everyone an inside look at what it really takes to buy and sell property right here in Citrus County — and let’s just say, we all walked away with a whole new appreciation for what realtors actually do. It’s way more than putting a sign in the yard!
From contracts and negotiations to inspections and closing day details, Michelle showed us just how much work goes on behind the scenes to make home ownership possible.
We love giving our participants opportunities to learn about real-world careers and life skills. Thank you, Michelle, for opening that door for us! 🔑
At the Key Training Center, our Computer Class was full of learning and fun!
The Career Exploration Technology Lab is an exciting addition to the Key Training Center, providing adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) the opportunity to build pre-vocational and employment skills using modern technology.
Encouraged by Dennis Baxley and Ralph Massullo, the Key Center applied for the 2024 State Appropriations Special Project to help train vocational staff in specialized software and applications. Through this funding, the program was able to purchase computers, smartboards, tablets, and virtual reality technology designed to help participants practice important employment and social skills.
The lab is already seeing strong participation as clients explore technology-based learning. In a recent Computer Class, participants practiced basic computer skills with the help of volunteer Kenneth Marotte, a retired IT professional with more than 40 years of experience. His guidance helps participants build confidence, learn everyday digital skills, and gain greater independence in today’s technology-driven world.
Key Training Center visits Bluewater Drafting
Bluewater Drafting Welcomes Key Training Center for a Behind-the-Scenes Look at Home Design CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — A small group from the Key Training Center recently got a hands-on tour of the home design process, thanks to Drew Benefield, owner of Bluewater Drafting. Benefield guided participants through the step-by-step process his team uses to turn clients’ ideas into fully detailed construction plans ready for permitting. The tour included everything from traditional blueprints to AutoCAD designs and full-color renderings, offering an inside look at the world of residential drafting and design. Bluewater Drafting also provided lunch and cupcakes, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere and highlighting the company’s commitment to community involvement. The Key Training Center extends a heartfelt thank-you to Drew and the Bluewater team for sharing their time, expertise, and hospitality.
Caring K9s Visits the Key Training Center
Caring K9s therapy dogs Fenway, Bunker, Willow, and Amie brought comfort and smiles to participants during a recent visit to Key Training Center and Key Elder Care.
Caring K9s is a Florida 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-based organization made up of dedicated therapy dog handlers and their dogs. The group’s mission is to provide kindness, comfort, and companionship through therapy dog visits that support emotional well-being and brighten the days of those they serve.
#TherapyDogTraining #TherapyDogs #CaringK9s #CommunityCare
Martin Luther King Day 2026
Key Training Center clients proudly joined the community at Copeland Park in Crystal River to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
It was a meaningful day filled with unity, reflection, and a renewed commitment to Dr. King’s vision of justice and equality for all.
Citrus County Supervisor of Elections
Adventure + learning = a pretty great day at The Key! Our group set off on a field trip to the Citrus County Supervisor of Elections office to explore the ins and outs of the election process — from voter registration to understanding our rights and responsibilities as voters. Supervisor of Elections extraordinaire Maureen “Mo” Baird and her amazing team were absolute rockstars, breaking everything down and answering our questions like pros. They made learning fun, engaging, and easy to understand — knowledge was flying like confetti! 
And the best part? We even got to practice voting (just for fun)! Huge thanks to Mo and her crew for such an energizing and educational experience. Civic engagement starts with learning, and we’re grateful for the opportunity! #KeyTrainingCenter #CommunityConnections #VoterEducation #CivicEngagement
Employee Recognition Party 2025
Key Center Honors Employees At 2025 Recognition Party The Key Center celebrated the dedication and achievements of its staff during the 2025 Employee Recognition Party, held December 17. The annual event recognized employees who were nominated by their supervisors and selected as Employees of the Month throughout the year. Attendees were welcomed by Kristen MacConnell, who opened the celebration by thanking staff for their dedication and setting a positive tone for the day. The Employee Recognition Program is designed to honor staff members who demonstrate performance above and beyond expectations, foster pride and accomplishment in the workplace, encourage teamwork, and boost overall morale. This year, a total of 71 Employee of the Month awards were presented. Employees also enjoyed interactive activities throughout the celebration, including Keyopoly, a custom game created by the Human Resources team that added a fun, engaging element to the event. Participants played for door prizes, further adding to the festive atmosphere. Each recipient received a gift card or cash prize as part of the celebration. “Congratulations to each of you,” the organization shared. “We appreciate all you do, and the Key Center would not be where it is today without your work ethic and positive influence that touches your departments and teams.” In addition to monthly recognitions, the Key Center also honored employees through its Years of Service Program. Under the program, employees receive a $250 check for every five years of service, awarded during their anniversary month and increasing cumulatively with each milestone. For example, employees celebrating 10 years of service receive $500, 15 years receive $750, and 20 years receive $1,000. Fifteen employees celebrated service anniversaries in 2025, with a total of $5,250 distributed through the program. 2025 Years of Service Award Recipients 5 Years of Service Mark Suydam; Melissa Brown; Jewel Green; Patrick Thomas; Deborah Montebello; Deborah Pappas; Johnnie Minder; Johnnie Steiner; Nathan Copp 10 Years of Service Kay A. Weaver; Cheryl-Ann Saltmarsh; Katherine Neikirk; Justin Conrad 15 Years of Service Melissa J. Burke Niciforo; Tracy Piraux The celebration also highlighted Employees of the Month from December 2024 through November 2025. Employees of the Month December 2024 Karen Willoughby; Lisa Mattson; Linda Darby; Debra Allwood January 2025 Angela Diamond; Kristen Stafford; Bill Chaney; Shari Gold Thorne; Kelly Melton; Jane Williams February 2025 Melissa Soderstrom; Joe Laguana; Kim Stewart; Melissa Jonaitis; Laura Clark March 2025 Bill Rutterman; Jennie LaFoe; Wendy Root; Melissa Burke; Audrey Smith; Joseph Sosnicki April 2025 Margaret Aspin; Crystal Baltzel; Denise Mayer; Jessica Brown; Natasha Wharton; Jan Rusche May 2025 Alison Duncan; Jessica Zane; Dora Meador; Alicia Quigley; Chris Hittman June 2025 Linaya Crumbley; Eric Mesick; Michelle Merrell; Nancy Chytka; Shelbia Hopper July 2025 Aaliyah Chandler; Xavier Washington; Joan Wallace; Annie Joyce; Mary Robertson August 2025 Connie Meador; Angela Durrance; Cheyenne Perry; Marcus Carrick September 2025 Yvonne Chandler; Donna DeMarzio; Pat Flood; Daphnie Jones; Amy Luu Fabela; Holly VanNess October 2025 Jenny Emery; Amber Tracy; Heidi Brady; Michael Cunha; Christina Bottaro; Griselda Coimbre; Tracy Piraux; Daphne Taulman November 2025 Sheila Kiger; Kristen Wellbrock; Renee Benavides; Anna Davis; Amber Woerth; Deborah Campbell; Jeannine Chambers; Lee Clifford; Patrick Thomas; Patrick Francis; Laura Crum A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of the 2025 Employee of the Year Awards, recognizing outstanding staff members whose leadership, dedication, and commitment exemplify the Key Center’s mission. 2025 Employee of the Year Award Recipients • Supported Services Employee of the Year 2025 – Jennie LaFoe, presented by Theresa Flick, Director of Program Operations, in recognition of her consistency, teamwork, and positive impact across programs. • Adult Day Training Employee of the Year 2025 – Michael Cunha, presented by Barbara Branch, Director of Day Services, and Melissa Short, ADT Lead, honoring his dedication to participants and leadership within the program. • Residential Employee of the Year 2025 – Melissa Jonaitis, presented by Bryan Kantorczyk, Director of Residential Services. Jonaitis was recognized for her compassion, reliability, and commitment to high-quality care (not present). • Foundation Employee of the Year 2025 – Michelle Merrell, presented by Tinker Bowen, Foundation Director, and Melissa “Mo” Brown, Retail Sales and Operations Manager, acknowledging her contributions to advancing the organization’s outreach and support efforts. • Executive Director’s Award 2025 – Stephen Arena, presented by Melissa Walker, Executive Director, for his exceptional leadership and lasting impact on the organization. During the event, Executive Director Melissa Walker also provided an organizational update, reflecting on the past year’s challenges and successes. She acknowledged the resilience of staff in navigating ongoing demands while highlighting key accomplishments made possible through teamwork, dedication, and shared commitment to the Key Center’s mission. The Key Center’s annual recognition event underscored the organization’s commitment to celebrating excellence, longevity, and the positive impact its employees make every day.
Christmas Dance Party 2025
’Tis the season to sparkle and celebrate! 
The Key Training Center threw the ultimate holiday bash, and it was nothing short of magical! 
We hit the dance floor, jingled all the way, and soaked up the joy of the season with amazing company and festive vibes. 
We even had special visits from Mickey, Minnie, and of course Santa! 
Here’s to the magic of the holidays, the warmth of community, and the memories that make it all unforgettable!