Tributes to the life of Matthew Shepard (1976 - 1998), who died a hate crime victim at 12:53am on Monday 12th October 1998. The Matthew Shepard Foundation was created in December 1998 by Dennis and Judy Shepard to honor the memory of their son; with goals that include supporting diversity programs in education and helping youth organizations establish environments where young people can feel safe and be themselves. "Give your kids a hug and don't let a day go by without telling them you love them." - Judy Shepard