Why We Walk for St. Mary's Kids

The Big Hearts Walk is more than just a walk—it’s a celebration of hope, resilience, and the incredible strength of St. Mary’s Kids, children, and young adults with the most complex and challenging medical needs. When you walk, donate, or sponsor, you help St. Mary's Kids reach milestones their families once thought were impossible.

Become a Big Hearts Sponsor!
As a sponsor, you’ll demonstrate your commitment to children with complex medical needs while gaining meaningful visibility throughout our community. Together, we can take steps that lead to brighter futures—one big heart at a time.

Become a Sponsor

St. Mary's Community Honoree

Lynne Koufakis

Star Toyota, Nissan, Subaru, Hyundai, and Genesis of Bayside

We are proud to honor Lynne Koufakis, a dedicated advocate for children and individuals with complex medical and developmental needs. Guided by her lived experience as a mother of four, including two sons with autism, and her leadership at Life’s WORC, Lynne has championed care, dignity, and opportunity for medically fragile children and their families. Join us at the Big Hearts Walk as we celebrate her compassion and community impact.

St. Mary's Staff Honoree

Eileen Alvarez

Nurse Educator

We are proud to recognize Eileen Alvarez, Nurse Educator at St. Mary’s, as this year’s Staff Honoree. Through her 17 years of dedication, clinical expertise, and compassionate leadership, Eileen plays a vital role in preparing and supporting caregivers who serve medically fragile children and young adults. Her dedication has strengthened our clinical teams, inspired new nurses, and helped shape the high standards of care that define St. Mary’s today.

 

Know Before You Go!
Check here to make sure you're ready for a smooth, fun, and meaningful day in support of our kids.
To learn more about St. Mary's Healthcare System for Children, visit our website.