Our Mission  
Spare Key provides financial assistance to Minnesota homeowners with critically ill or seriously injured children, by making a mortgage payment on the family's behalf.

Our History
Patsy and Robb Keech founded Spare Key in 1997 after the death of their 2 ½ year old son, Derian.  Born with a genetic birth defect, Derian endured many hospitalizations - six major surgeries and five open-heart surgeries in his short life.  The Keeches were torn between wanting and needing to be with their child as he faced his uphill battle to survive and going to work in order to maintain financial stability.  The choice to go to work to avoid losing their home or leaving their critically ill son was tormenting. In the end, they chose their son.

The Keeches did not lose their home.  Their family, friends and strangers raised money during this crisis to pay their mortgage.  This generosity alleviated stress and anxiety and allowed them to spend precious time with their son until the day he passed.  In memory of this courageous little boy who faced his many surgeries with a joyful spirit, the Keeches vowed to help other families facing similar situations.

Founders 
Patsy and Robb Keech

Executive Director 
Rae Thiede