Elinor Peace Steffy was a 22-year-old artist, community leader, teacher, daughter, and friend. She brought worlds together and served as the glue between so many lives.

Her life was cut short by a tragic accident on January 22nd. Earlier that morning, she was working with her mother in the restaurant they ran together. Elinor was on her way to work at the Hawkins School of the Performing Arts in Folsom, CA, when she was struck by a vehicle while waiting for the light rail. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Elinor was torn away from her mother, her family, her friends, and community. She leaves behind a void, a hole, a chasm in the hearts of her mother Delcy, her friends, and her entire community. Her mother is in enormous, unfathomable pain, yet she wants not only to memorialize Elinor but to put her vision, memory, creativity, and light to work. To do this, we are establishing a non-profit in her name, and we ask for your help to build this lasting legacy.

Elinor was a true mover of love; she gave unconditionally to those blessed with her presence.

A Mentor and teacher Elinor Peace Steffy was more than a dance teacher. She was a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of creativity in the Sacramento community. Her passion for dance was matched only by her love for her students. Elinor believed in nurturing each child as an individual, helping them discover their own style and voice. She cared deeply about their growth, both as dancers and as people, always encouraging them to express themselves and push their boundaries. Her classes were filled with joy, encouragement, and a genuine desire to see every student thrive.

Elinor was a community leader

As a community leader, Elinor, together with her mother Delcy, opened their hearts and their restaurant to local dance crews, providing a safe and welcoming space for young dancers to practice when they had nowhere else to go. This generosity helped build a vibrant, supportive dance community that continues to inspire and uplift others. Elinor's vision was to create opportunities for cultural exchange and travel, allowing young dancers from diverse backgrounds to share in the joy and art of dance.

Continuing her legacy

We are raising funds in Elinor's name to continue her legacy. We will be opening a non-profit organization to pursue these goals. Your support will help provide dance education, master classes, workshops, and cultural exchange experiences for Sacramento youth.

Thank you for joining us in honoring Elinor, not just by remembering her, but by actively supporting the next generation of dancers and community builders she cared so much about.