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 2023 Impact
2,300
Individual discussions occurred at The Key between a youth and a trusted adult
12
youth facing housing instability found safe accommodations for more than 140 nights
351
youth accessed food over 4,200 instances effectively addressing food security challenges
Our Partners
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