On Sunday, May 17th, hundreds of community volunteers will participate in St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children’s 20th annual Big Hearts Walk, a charity walk-a-thon to support New York’s most medically fragile children. This year’s event will honor Lynne Koufakis, a member of the New York State Developmental Disabilities Advisory Council and a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, and Eileen Alvarez, an experienced pediatric nurse at St. Mary’s.
Lynne Koufakis is a compassionate leader and advocate for children and individuals with complex medical, developmental, and special healthcare needs. Lynne’s passion for her work is shaped by her lived experience as a mother of four, including two sons with autism. She has served in multiple leadership roles, including at Life’s WORC, where she became the organization’s first female Board Chair. She also serves on the New York State Developmental Disabilities Advisory Council.
Eileen Alvarez is an experienced pediatric nurse at St. Mary’s, where she serves as Nurse Educator, mentoring new staff and supporting clinical excellence. With more than 36 years of experience in pediatrics, she has devoted her career to supporting children and families during some of their most difficult moments.
The 20th Annual Big Hearts Walk for St. Mary’s Kids will take place at Crocheron Park in Bayside on Sunday, May 17th at 10:00 a.m. A variety of family-friendly activities will follow the walk, including music, carnival games, arts and crafts, and more.
Adults can register on-site for $25 and children for $5. On-site registration opens at 9 a.m. Participants can also register online beforehand at www.stmaryskids.org/walk2026
Lynne and Michael Koufakis.
Eileen Alvarez.