The Key Coalition was officially established in December, 1996, having evolved from the state ARC. (ARC is national organization that has advocated for the rights of people with disabilities for over 30 years. This group was instrumental in getting the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act passed.)

One of the Key Coalition's main functions is to assume responsibility for the Key Campaign from the Association on Developmental Disabilities (ADD), an organized coalition of provider agencies. The Key Coalition also plans to develop increased awareness of disability issues, work with public and private agencies in this effort, and promote legislation that includes and represents people with disabilities.

The group's immediate goal is to develop its membership. Other goals include resource development, focusing on the annual Key Campaign and education at state and local levels.