The History of the Keys Children’s Foundation

Way back in the 1980’s, a group of Ocean Reef Club Members recognized the need to build a facility for abused and neglected children in the Keys. With their financial assistance, the Shelter was built and volunteers from ORC were actively involved in helping with the children’s care. Fund raising began at the first “Angel Luncheon”.

A Board of Directors was formed in the 1990’s and an OR Grandparent’s Group contributed funds to build a swimming pool in Key Largo. Barbara Jacobs, an early Angel donated $1,000,000 to the Jacob’s Aquatic Center. The Board recognized there were other community concerns and thus Needy Funds were created in the three Upper Keys Schools.

The Keys Children’s Foundation was formed in 1995 to formalize generous financial and volunteer support while organizing the KCF Grant Program that continues today with over 20 Grantees applying for help.