In its brief, nine year existence, The Matthew Shepard Foundation has experienced a lifetime of beginnings.  The October, 1998 murder of Matthew, the gay, 21-year-old son of Judy and Dennis Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming, was the “first” beginning.  In the aftermath of this horrific crime, the beginnings of anger, resentment, and bewilderment took root.  Grief and pain began to permeate the lives of those who knew and loved Matthew.  How could anyone make sense of this?  The nation desperately sought answers.

One uplifting response came in the form of The Matthew Shepard Foundation, a nationally-recognized 501c3 organization, in December of that year.  Since its inception the Foundation has journeyed from one challenging beginning to another, with each providing more opportunities for Matthew’s friends and supporters to educate the world on the importance of embracing diversity and sharing his values of respect and dignity for all.  Today, the good news is that more meaningful beginnings lie ahead. 

“There are no shortcuts to anyplace worth going.” 
— Anonymous

We are rarely afforded shortcuts through painful situations in life.  Instead, we must rely on our strength and resilience to accept what we can’t change — to use our hearts to seek out the dim light of hope in the darkness and share it with others.  That’s what the Matthew Shepard Foundation has done in communities throughout the world.  In honor of Matthew and all those who have been the victims of discrimination and hate, the Matthew Shepard Foundation offers a variety of on-going educational programs, activities, events, and outreach opportunities. 

 
Matthew’s legacy is one of love, optimism, and acceptance.  Please click on the links below to find out how you can ensure his voice will continue to be heard, and his dedication to equality embraced for generations to come.
 Hate Crimes Legislation: The Matthew Shepard Act
 The Matthew Shepard Foundation
 Small Bear, Big Dreams
 Get involved in civil rights and LGBT issues