About
Our Story
Northfield Union of Youth (NUY) was founded in 1993 by a Youth Board and a Board of Directors. Its first major goal was to open a substance-free youth center as a safe place for all youth to feel welcomed and encouraged.
The youth center opened in December of 1995 and became known as “The Key”, named in memory of Northfield High School student Lindsay Key Perkins. Lindsay championed the idea of a place for youth to call their own, but tragically died before the doors opened.
In 2010, The Key moved from 303 Water Street South to 109 6th Street West. It continues to be governed by a Youth Board, who make programming and policy decisions as well as interview and approve all staff hires and Adult Board members.
“A huge applause for the contributions that are made by The Key youth.”
Deney & Chuck Perkins, November 2023
(Parents of Lindsay KEY Perkins)
Our 2024 Impact
3,757
individual discussions occurred at The Key between a youth and a trusted adult
16
youth facing housing instability found safe accommodations for more than 350 nights
412
youth accessed food over 7,171 instances, effectively addressing food security challenges
Financial Transparency
We are proud recipients of the 2025 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency. View our Candid profile for a full overview of our finances.
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