For the Love of Community: Keith Shapiro Steps into JCC Leadership

If you’ve spent any time at the JCC of Greater Baltimore, you may have already seen Keith Shapiro around—chatting with staff, helping out at events, or simply enjoying the vibrant energy of the community. Now, we’re excited to formally introduce him as the new Chair of our Board. 

Keith brings to this role a wealth of professional experience and an even deeper well of passion for service. After a 35-year career at Sysco Foods, where he climbed the ranks from salesperson to president of major regional divisions, Keith could have easily kicked back and relaxed in retirement. Instead, he’s chosen to spend his time giving back—through volunteering, community boards, and leadership roles that reflect his values and big heart. 

Keith’s connection to Jewish life runs deep. Raised in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood, his earliest jobs were in kosher markets, and his involvement with the local JCC set the tone for a lifetime of community engagement. When he moved to Baltimore, it didn’t take long before he found himself reconnected to JCC life through the Maccabi Games, where his kids participated and he met many familiar faces. 

For Keith, leadership is all about listening, including everyone at the table, and building relationships rooted in mutual respect. Whether he’s mentoring a young board member or grocery shopping with families at a food pantry, Keith leads with empathy and a boots-on-the-ground mindset.

“I’m most comfortable rolling up my sleeves,” he says. “I’ve always connected with people who show up, do the work, and care deeply about the outcome.” 

In addition to his work with the JCC, Keith has served on the boards of the Maryland Food Bank, Community Assistance Network (CAN), and Great Kids Farm. Each role speaks to his passion for food access, education, and helping others thrive. 

As he steps into his new role, Keith is especially focused on expanding community connections across generations and neighborhoods—from Park Heights to Owings Mills and beyond. He sees huge opportunities in building bridges, welcoming new families, and making sure everyone—from preschoolers to seniors—feels at home in JCC spaces. 

Keith also knows the importance of representation. He’s working to bring more young leaders into the fold and create space for all voices at the table. “The JCC is at its best when it reflects the diversity and richness of our whole community,” he says. 

For Keith, this isn’t just about strategy or programming—it’s personal. Keith and his wife, Jenny, have four grown children—Jake (now married to Adiva), Sam, and twins Charlie and Esther—and his family has always been at the heart of his connection to Jewish community life. He also credits his 96-year-old father-in-law—a longtime Baltimore business and community leader—as one of his greatest mentors. “He’s the first person I call when something important happens,” Keith says. “Even now, I learn from the way he carries himself—with humility, wisdom, and an incredible commitment to giving back.” 

“I’m honored to serve in this role, and I’m excited about what we can accomplish together.”

Please join us in welcoming Keith Shapiro as Chair of the Board. If you see him at the JCC, be sure to say hi—he’ll be the one smiling, probably volunteering, and always happy to connect.