Who Are We?
Empowering youth. Supporting families. Transforming communities.
Our Story
Your Past Doesn’t Define You — Your Steps Do
Sam is one of the reasons Step's Foundation, Inc. exists today. Born with a rare condition called tuberous sclerosis, he faced lifelong medical and developmental challenges. I watched my mother search tirelessly for proper care, supportive doctors, and community resources that truly wanted to help, and too often, she came up short. It opened my eyes to just how many families were walking that same path alone.
Years later, I found purpose in teaching and mentoring young people. But I knew I wanted to do more, not just for students, but for the families behind them. I envisioned a place where youth and their caregivers could feel seen, supported, and equipped. That vision became Step's Foundation, a bridge between challenges and resources, isolation and connection, fear and forward movement.
Today, our name is more than a name, it's a message:
Standing Together Empowering our Present Self.
No matter where you’ve come from, how difficult your journey has been, or how far behind you may feel, your past does not define your future. We believe in the power of standing together. In empowering who you are right now. And in helping you take the next step toward who you’re becoming. Because healing, growth, and purpose begin with believing that your story still has so much more to unfold.
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Our Mission
Step’s Foundation Inc’s mission is to connect members of the local community to both valuable resources, and most importantly, each other through the administration of community workshops, support groups, career support services, and other social services. With a focus on youth development, youth leadership, family engagement, and family empowerment, Step’s Foundation, Inc aims to lay a foundation of continued support for the whole community to grow together.
Our Vision
Our vision at Step’s Foundation, Inc is to be a pillar of support for local communities that promote growth, creativity, and education.
Our Values
Serve and Support – Show compassion, respect, and integrity while creating opportunities for members in the community to receive the necessary resources!
Transformation – Action meets connection when we serve to transform lives!
Empowerment – Providing opportunities and resources to our families and community to get the support they need to rise up to their highest potential!
Passion – Be inspired to do for others throughout the organization and in the community!
Selflessness and Community – We do what we do for the greater good not ourselves, while working in connection with our community to reach our goal of mutual support.
Meet the Founder
Abigail "Abby" Ellis MS, RMHCI
Abby is the heart and vision behind STEPS Foundation, Inc. A proud native of Moore Haven, Florida, Abby grew up watching her grandmother give selflessly to others and witnessing her mother’s relentless efforts to support her brother through a complex medical diagnosis.
Her passion for service began in early childhood education, where she grew from teacher to center director. Driven to lead and create meaningful change, Abby pursued degrees and certifications in business, project management, and counseling — combining her love for education with a deep understanding of how to build effective community systems.
In 2019, she founded STEPS Foundation with one clear mission: to help youth and families reach their goals by connecting them with the resources they need to thrive. Abby leads with both strategy and heart, believing that every person has the power to grow, overcome, and achieve more than they imagined.
Favorite Quote:
“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” – Maya Angelou
Meet The Board (2025)
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Meet our Dedicated Team
At Step's Foundation, it takes more than programs to create change; it takes people. Our team is a passionate group of individuals who bring energy, compassion, and commitment to everything we do. Whether engaging with students, supporting families, or building community connections, each person plays a vital role in making our mission a reality.
