KEYS has been the largest provider of comprehensive employment and newcomer services in Kingston and its surrounding region for 40 years.
We help change lives.
It’s our anniversary!
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Founded in 1983 as a Youth Employment Centre in response to the youth employment crisis, KEYS has developed into a much larger presence within our community.
KEYS is a registered charity. With very few exceptions, our programs have no cost to those those we serve.
At KEYS, we strive to help people realize their full potential. We get to regularly help: a student get their very first job; an unemployed person, not only find work but get a career; a university graduate connect with a mentor in their field of study; a retired senior reenter the workforce; an underemployed person get their dream job; a newcomer to Canada acquire language training and skills to succeed in Canada; employers succeed at business; and so much more.
We also welcome and depend on volunteers within our organization. Volunteering, as those who have done it know, can be a life-changing experience!
We offer a variety of opportunities for local businesses and professionals to help other members of our community. For those not able to give their time, we graciously accept financial donations to help us continue the work we do.
Our story starts and ends with helping people. Whatever contact you have with KEYS (as a volunteer, an employee, a job seeker, an employer) we hope that it results in a positive life change.
In order to achieve our vision statement and goals it is vital to network and partner with others.
We are proud of our strategic alliances with those in our community (local and global) who help us meet the needs of all we serve.
We are committed to supporting members of our community through compassionate action and mutual respect.
Our Memberships
KEYS is part of a larger employment and newcomer services community and is a member of the following associations.
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Board of Directors
The KEYS Board of Directors operates within a Policy Governance model based on the work of John Carver.
This means the Board plays a leadership role, focusing on the big picture and visions for the future; rather than getting lost in the operational and administrative details of the present.
The Board is responsible for directing and protecting the organization in the interests of the community. It encourages a diversity of viewpoints and clearly distinguishes board and staff roles.
Board Members
Wendy Vuyk – President
Tarek Hussein – Vice-President
Pennie Carr-Harris – Secretary
Les Morley – Past-President
Christine Bellamy – Treasurer
Line Drapeau – Director
Matt LeMay – Director
Jon Oosterman – Director
Deanna Davies – Director
