KEYS Program
The KEYS Program
Let KEYS open the door to your future—one goal at a time.
If you’re enrolled at BC3 and receive TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, the KEYS Program is here to support you. KEYS provides personalized support to help you stay focused on school, reduce stress, and build a better future for you and your family.
How KEYS Helps You Succeed
The KEYS Program provides free academic, financial, and personal support services
to reach your goals.
We'll help you:
- Navigate college systems and paperwork
- Stay connected to college and community resources
- Build the confidence and skills needed to graduate
- Reach your goals of earning a career-specific certificate or degree
KEYS keeps you focused on building a strong foundation for a stable, rewarding career.
Why KEYS Matters
KEYS was developed in response to growing research that shows that individuals who earn a career-ready certificate or associate degree — whether credit or noncredit — are more likely to:
- Secure jobs that offer family-sustaining wages and benefits
- Experience greater career stability and advancement
- Earn higher incomes than those who have not attended college
These programs are designed to help you gain employment directly in your chosen field.
Ready to Get Started?
You may be eligible for KEYS if you:
Here’s how to join:
If you're already recieving benefits, ask your CAO caseworker to refer you. Or contact
the KEYS Office at BC3 and we’ll walk you through the process.
Need to apply for benefits? You can apply online in just a few steps.
What KEYS and CAO Can Help You With
When you’re juggling school, work, and family, every bit of support makes a difference. KEYS and the County Assistance Office (CAO) offer a wide range of services to help you stay focused, reduce stress, and succeed in college.
From KEYS at BC3:
- Loaner laptops and calculators
- Lending library and textbook loan program
- Incentives and participant reimbursements
- Extra tutoring support
- Access to KEYS Computer Learning Center
From CAO (if eligible):
- Childcare assistance (ELRC)
- Transportation (mileage or bus passes)
- Car purchase, repairs, and registration (TANF only)
- Required books, supplies, or uniforms
- Driver’s license and test fees
- Program or test registration costs
Meet the KEYS Team
We’re here to help you stay on track, overcome challenges, and reach your goals.
| Jayme Steighner KEYS Program Facilitator |
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| Carla Schoentag KEYS Student Facilitator |
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Hear from Our Pioneers
KEYS helped pay for my books and loaned me a graphing calculator. Without KEYS it would have been a heck of a lot harder. I probably would have taken longer because I would have had to work more while I was in school and my grades wouldn’t have been as good as they were.
Debra Hoffman - Class of 2024, Former KEYS Participant
Additional Support Services
Pioneer Pantry
Access free groceries and essential items through BC3’s onsite food pantry.
Learn MoreCounseling Services
BC3 offers access to confidential counseling to support your well-being.
Learn More