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Carol Steinman’s dedication to the Center has been marked by her leadership, philanthropy, and deep commitment

Spend a few minutes in Carol Steinman’s company, and one will quickly recognize the voice of an impassioned supporter. Carol’s commitment to The Brookline Center began when a friend, recognizing Carol’s expertise as a licensed social worker, invited her to join the Center’s Board, sparking a journey that has spanned nearly four decades. 

Over the years, Carol and her husband Ted, a retired nephrologist, have made significant charitable contributions to The Brookline Center, driven by Carol’s deeply held wish to support women facing challenges to their mental health and wellbeing because of economic hardship. In honor of her dedication, Ted and Carol’s three sons established the Carol Z. Steinman Fund on her 75th birthday.  

The first named fund at the Center, the “Carol Fund” provides emergency support for clients who find themselves in dire situations. “I can’t imagine a more meaningful way to give back than by helping those in need,” says Carol, who encourages support of the fund from family and friends every year. “This fund was the best gift my children could have given me. They understood how much the Center’s work means to me, and now, through my fund, they’re ensuring its impact continues year after year.” 

To date, the fund has primarily assisted Center clients who are Brookline Housing Authority residents. It helps women and their families with urgent financial challenges, such as single mothers needing beds for a new apartment, or unexpected funeral costs. The fund has assisted clients of the Center’s Emergency Solutions Grant program, a federally funded homelessness prevention program that offers case management, financial assistance, and support for housing stability, and the Transition to Independent Living Program, which helps homeless mothers regain their footing and find stable housing. 

In addition to helping women and families in need, Carol’s unwavering support for community mental health is exemplified by her commitment to ensuring mental health care becomes more accessible to all and that financial means are not a barrier to care. 

Community mental health is distinguished by its holistic approach to understanding and addressing all drivers of mental health, including social determinants, and much of this “collateral care,” like case management, is not covered by private insurance. With the help of generous donors like the Steinmans, the Center is able to offer many services on a sliding scale or at no cost. 

“The Center’s emphasis on accessibility is why I am so loyal in my support,” says Carol. 

Beyond her philanthropic activities, Carol gives much of her time to the Center as a member of the Board’s Executive Committee, Women at the Center Leadership Committee, and Governance and Nominating Committee. 

Ted’s appreciation and admiration of his wife’s commitment to mental health is readily apparent: “Carol always puts The Brookline Center first. Her commitment to the mission and the essential services the Center provides has made her a stable force for many years. The work she does and her impact over the years are incredibly valuable.”