Assembly Resolution No. 1624

BY: M. of A. Blumencranz

HONORING Ava Walia in recognition of her
extraordinary efforts to promote organ donation
awareness through Hopes & Soles

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
young leaders whose vision, compassion, and dedication have made a
meaningful difference in the lives of others and have strengthened
communities throughout the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Ava Walia in recognition of her extraordinary efforts to promote organ
donation awareness through Hopes & Soles; and

WHEREAS, Ava Walia, a distinguished young resident of Syosset, New
York, has demonstrated remarkable leadership, empathy, and civic
engagement at an early age by championing a cause that has touched
countless lives throughout New York State; and

WHEREAS, Inspired by the loss of her beloved grandfather to kidney
disease, Ava Walia transformed personal tragedy into a mission of hope,
determined to educate others about the lifesaving importance of organ,
eye, and tissue donation and to honor the selfless individuals whose
gifts provide second chances to those in need; and

WHEREAS, Two years ago, Ava Walia founded Hopes & Soles, a community
walk dedicated to raising awareness of organ donation and bringing
together donor families, transplant recipients, healthcare
professionals, advocates, and community members in a shared commitment
to saving lives; and

WHEREAS, What began as a small gathering of friends, family members,
and neighbors united by a common purpose has grown into a statewide
movement that continues to inspire meaningful conversations about organ
donation and encourage New Yorkers to register as organ donors; and

WHEREAS, In 2025, Hopes & Soles achieved a significant milestone as
it expanded its reach to communities across New York State and served as
the inaugural Donate Life New York State Walk at Eisenhower Park,
further advancing public awareness and support for organ donation
initiatives; and

WHEREAS, Through her tireless efforts, Ava Walia has helped educate
individuals and families about the profound impact of donation,
highlighting the stories of those whose lives have been saved through
transplantation and honoring the generosity of donors and their
families; and

WHEREAS, All proceeds generated through Hopes & Soles are donated to
Donate Life New York State to support its mission of saving and healing
lives through organ, eye, and tissue donation, ensuring that Ava Walia's
work directly contributes to improving and extending the lives of
others; and


WHEREAS, Hopes & Soles embodies the values of hope, remembrance,
service, and community, reminding all New Yorkers that even a single act
of generosity can have a lasting and transformative impact on countless
individuals and families; and

WHEREAS, Ava Walia's compassion, leadership, and unwavering
commitment to helping others serve as an inspiration to her peers and to
all residents of this great State, demonstrating that age is no barrier
to making a profound difference in the world; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Ava Walia in recognition of her extraordinary efforts to promote
organ donation awareness through Hopes & Soles; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Ava Walia.