New Leaf Link Founder Passes

Karin Steiner, founder of New Leaf Link (NeLL), will be remembered for her vision, compassion, and quiet determination to build a more inclusive community. Driven by her love for her son, Nicolas, who is on the autism spectrum, Karin created New Leaf Link to ensure he—and others—would have a place to continue learning and forming meaningful connections after high school, close to home.

With a PhD in education, Karin brought both expertise and purpose to her work. She was deeply committed to ensuring that New Leaf Link offered meaningful educational programming for the participants. Karin donated her time as our full-time Program Manager from 2009 - 2020. In her role she developed the education curriculum while mentoring everyone who joined New Leaf Link. She believed in lifelong learning and was tireless in her efforts to reveal the talents, interests, skills and passions of the participants at NeLL.

Karin had a remarkable ability to recognize potential in others, drawing together dedicated staff, volunteers, and board members who shared her purpose. Warm and deeply caring, she was devoted to supporting others and always sought the best for those around her, especially within the New Leaf Link community. Though she stepped back due to health challenges, her spirit remains deeply rooted in the organization she nurtured from a seed. She will be profoundly missed and gratefully remembered.

A celebration of life will be held at Trousdale Funeral Home on May 30th at 12pm.