Step Art is more than a foundation—it’s a movement that uses art as a bridge to inclusion and empowerment. Through creative expression, we provide individuals with disabilities the tools to discover their potential, connect with others, and transform their lives.
Our programs are designed to foster personal growth, celebrate diversity, and build a supportive community where everyone can thrive. At Step Art, we believe that every brushstroke, every creation, and every story matters.
We promote inclusion, diversity, and accessibility through art, offering opportunities for individuals with disabilities to explore their creative potential and find purpose.
To envision a world where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can fully express themselves and contribute to a more inclusive society.
Inspired by the story of Stephy Padilla, our co-founder, we work tirelessly to break down barriers and create a space where everyone is welcomed and valued for their talent and uniqueness.
María Elena Padilla Campo is a prominent Colombian-American leader and entrepreneur, born in Barranquilla, Colombia. She studied Political Economy at the University of Atlántico.
She began her professional career at the Julio Mario Santodomingo Foundation, where she helped small business owners develop administrative and financial skills to create and strengthen their businesses. Later, she worked for 18 years at the Water, Sewerage, and Sanitation Company, where she served as Commercial Director, leading community development and administrative projects.
In 2003, she moved to the United States, where she had a daughter, Stephy Padilla, who was born with special needs in 2005. This experience inspired her to become an advocate for people with disabilities and to found Step Art Org, a non-profit organization that seeks to empower and provide opportunities to people with disabilities through art and inclusion.
María Elena’s daughter, Stephy, is her main source of inspiration and motivation. Her talent and determination have driven María Elena to create Step Art Org and work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities and their families.
Stephy Padilla is an American artist and activist, born in Georgia with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome. Despite having only 0.05% vision, Stephy has overcome numerous challenges and become an inspiration to many.
During her first 15 years, Stephy underwent numerous hospital stays, therapies, surgeries, and rehabilitation sessions. However, her determination and passion for art led her to graduate from high school with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
Stephy always dreamed of studying Art at the University of North Georgia (UNG), but unfortunately, the universities lacked adequate support for young people with her condition. Despite this obstacle, Stephy refused to give up and chose to dedicate herself to her own business as an art creator.
Today, Stephy is a passionate activist who empowers youth and families through her art and her story. As the co-founder of Step Art Org, Stephy uses her platform to promote inclusion, diversity, and accessibility in the art world.
Through her work, Stephy aims to inspire others to overcome their own challenges and to find their passion and purpose. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of never giving up in the face of obstacles.
Our foundation is guided by a dedicated team of experts and leaders, under the direction of our founder, María Elena Padilla, and co-founder, Stephy Padilla.
At Step Art Org, we are committed to making a difference through impactful programs that combine creativity, empowerment, and inclusion. Our initiatives focus on providing individuals with disabilities the opportunity to explore their artistic talents, develop essential skills, and connect with a supportive community.
Creative workshops designed to develop artistic skills, such as painting, music, dance and more in people with and without disabilities.
Programs for families, including children, youth and adults, aimed at the correct management of emotions to self-regulate and make informed decisions.
Meeting spaces for families with children with or without disabilities where they can share experiences, find support, and receive guidance and resources.
When you donate to Step Art, you’re helping to build a more inclusive world. Your contributions empower individuals with disabilities to discover their creative potential, connect with others, and find purpose through art. Together, we can break down barriers, celebrate diversity, and provide the tools needed to transform lives.
Every donation matters and brings us closer to a society where everyone has the opportunity to shine. Be part of this mission and make every brushstroke count!
Discover how Step Art Org has transformed lives and continues to inspire many.
