Kyle Shapiro took his own life on April 3, 2006 at the age of 17. Kyle was a talented and popular young man with a very bright future, cut tragically short.  Academically, he was a strong student with particular interests in math and science. He had a passion for baseball and was an accomplished baseball player – starting for the American Legion in 9th grade and as the Needham varsity shortstop and clean-up hitter at the time of his death. Though what was truly most notable about Kyle was his kindness and sensitivity for others, his love for family and friends, and their love for him.

As his family has struggled to process that devastating day, they have been graced by the outpouring of affection for Kyle, and expressions of love and support shown to them by the community. All knew that the loss of Kyle was senseless and a clear indication of the monumental challenges facing our society in addressing issues of mental health and wellness, particularly among teenagers.

As a result, the family established The Kyle W. Shapiro Foundation in May 2006 to celebrate Kyle’s life, give back to community and, most importantly, to reduce the risk of such tragic loss happening again – in Needham and elsewhere.