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Special Message from the Executive Director
Dear Friend,
The Key Training Center has shown that with the right kind of supports coupled with an environment that promotes kindness, love, dignity, and respect, adults with developmental disabilities will flourish. I would like to introduce you to Will Smith. Will, a vital man in his 50’s, has been part of the Key Training Center for 31 years. His life reflects the promise of possibilities. His story is both tragic and triumphant.
 At age 7, Will was turned over to the state system because of a serious automobile accident that resulted in the severity of his disabilities and we assume the inability of his family to provide care for him. For the next 12 years, he would live in the Gainesville state-run institution for individuals with mental retardation. Eventually, in 1976, he moved into a group home located in Dunnellon and traveled daily to Key Center’s day training program. When the group home was closed in 1993, Will came to live in a Key Center group home. Today, he lives in his home with five housemates and enjoys a rich life within the community.
When Will arrived at the Key Center, he instantly connected with the nursery program. He enjoys all aspects of nursery work including potting plants, weeding, growing plants from cuttings, and bagging soil. When the Key Center started the grounds maintenance crew program 7 years ago, Will took to it quickly. He now operates power tools such as a blower, push mower, and weedwacker.
Will is known for his award-winning smile and a work ethic that is admired. He comes to work each day with an upbeat attitude, never hesitates to do something, and works very hard on his tasks. In fact, according to his supervisor, they have to be very careful to make sure Will takes needed hydration and rest breaks.
When not working, Will can be found on the dance floor at any musical event and won’t stop until the music stops. At home, he enjoys watching movies, especially war and western themes. He can also be found outside his home, waving at cars and people as they pass by which he lovingly calls “making buddies.” He is a member of the Aviation Club and attends the First Baptist Church of Inverness.
Will is only one of the inspirational stories that take place each day at the Key Center. Year round, we serve about 300 individuals with 170 of them calling the Key Center home. With your support, we also provide scholarships to 40 individuals who receive no State funding assistance. Your contributions support services including classroom instruction, vocational training, supported and full employment, life sustaining care, and residential and community living.
The Key Center depends on public charitable donations to deliver quality services for people with developmental disabilities. These gifts help us serve those who need us today and for those who will need us in the future. Please act today by becoming a KEY MEMBER. As a 2008 KEY MEMBER, you will receive a membership card that entitles you to some added benefits. Your spirit of generosity and support is appreciated. May God richly bless you throughout the year.
Chester V. Cole, Executive Director
Simply download this form and mail your contribution to receive your membership card.
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