A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization

In Memory of
Makayla Guerriero

Dedicated to preventing suicide, reducing stigma around mental health, and giving student-athletes the opportunity to play the sports they love — in Makayla's memory.

Makayla Guerriero
Makayla Guerriero
2012 — Always Remembered

Your Support at Work

$250,000+
Contributed to the SOS Signs of Suicide Program
70,000+
Students reached in the past year alone
150+
School systems supported across Massachusetts
1,000+
Teachers, counselors & administrators trained
$100,000+
Awarded in athletic scholarships to 327+ student-athletes

Makayla's Story

From her Mom Kellie and her Dad Tim

Makayla Guerriero
Makayla Guerriero — Always in our hearts 💜
"Makayla was our daughter, and she was larger than life from the very beginning."

She had this energy about her that people were drawn to. She had so many friends, and she loved being social. Her phone was always going, her social media was always active, and she was always making plans. She had a way of making people feel like they mattered, and people naturally gravitated toward her.

At home, Makayla was part of a loud, loving family. Her sisters meant everything to her. Like most sisters, they didn't always get along — but they grew up side by side, and there was always love underneath it all. That was just part of being a family.

Her Dad, Tim, had the privilege of being her basketball coach when she was younger. That time together meant everything. It wasn't just about the game — it was about the car rides, the practices, the lessons, and watching her grow in confidence. Seeing her out on the court, competing and smiling, is something Tim will always cherish.

Her Mom, Kellie, was her comfort and her safe place. Makayla could talk to Kellie about anything. There was a closeness and trust between them that only a mother and daughter can truly understand. She was Mom's girl, and that bond was deep and unconditional.

Makayla loved sports. She was proud to be a member of the South Shore Basketball Travel League, Varsity Lacrosse team at Abington High School, and she trained at South Shore Boxing. Sports gave her confidence, strength, and a sense of belonging.

When Makayla was 15, she began to struggle with her mental health. We did everything we could as parents. We made sure she had support, resources, and professional help. We stood beside her every step of the way and loved her with everything we had.

"What we've learned is that mental health struggles don't always look the way people expect. You can have friends, family, sports, and love all around you — and still be hurting inside."

Makayla was deeply loved. She still is.

After losing Makayla, we knew we had to do something to help other families and other kids. That's why The Makayla Fund was created — to honor her life and to help other young people get the support they need.

Through Makayla's legacy, students are getting mental health support. Student athletes are able to stay connected to their teams. Schools and teachers are having conversations that save lives.

Makayla will always be our daughter. Nothing will ever change that. And through this foundation, her life continues to make a difference in the lives of others. Her light is still here. 💜

What We Stand For

🧠

Suicide Prevention

Funding evidence-based SOS Signs of Suicide programs in local middle and high schools across Massachusetts — teaching students and training staff to recognize warning signs and take action.

💜

Reducing Stigma

Creating open conversations about mental health in schools and communities so no one suffers in silence. Awareness saves lives.

🏆

Student-Athlete Scholarships

Because we know the value of sports to a young person's wellbeing, we provide scholarships covering fees and equipment for students who can't afford to participate.

🏫

School & Community Support

Partnering with MindWise Innovations and Riverside Trauma Center to bring suicide prevention education, parent resources, and staff training to communities across Massachusetts.

Where Donations Go

🧠

SOS Signs of Suicide Program

Annual Commitment: $15,000–$40,000

The nationally recognized SOS program teaches students to recognize depression and suicide risk in themselves and others — and trains adults to respond effectively.

  • 150+ Massachusetts school systems supported
  • 70,000+ students reached this year alone
  • 1,000+ teachers & counselors trained
  • Spanish-language resources for equity & access
  • Parent portal & webinar resources
🏆

Student-Athlete Scholarships

Annual Commitment: $10,000–$20,000

Sports build confidence, belonging, and mental resilience. We make sure no student misses out due to financial barriers.

  • $100,000+ awarded since 2013
  • 327+ student-athletes supported
  • 15 schools & multiple full teams funded
  • Massachusetts & Arizona students supported
  • Covers fees, equipment & participation costs
14th Annual Event

Golf Tournament & Fundraiser

📅 Friday, September 11, 2026 📍 Ridder Farm Golf Course ⛳ 8:30 AM Shotgun Start 🎉 Post-Golf Raffles & Auction at Whitman Knights of Columbus

"Our goal is to save one life. Even one more life would make The Makayla Fund successful in our eyes."

— The Guerriero Family

📞 617-966-1575
📍 14 Cornerstone Drive, Bridgewater, MA 02324
🔖 Tax ID: 46-2400995
💜 Donate Now