Allegany-Limestone Student Named Top Fundraiser for 2026 Hospice Hope Walk
For the second consecutive year, Allegany-Limestone student Aliyah Connor earned top fundraising honors by raising money to support compassionate hospice care for local families.
Allegany-Limestone student Aliyah Connor proudly wears her 2026 Hospice Hope Walk shirt and event swag after being recognized as the top individual fundraiser for the second consecutive year.ALLEGANY - Giving back has become an annual tradition for Allegany-Limestone student Aliyah Connor. Now in her second year raising pledges for the HomeCare & Hospice Foundation's Hospice Hope Walk, Bike & Run, Aliyah collected $475 from family and friends, making her the event's top individual fundraiser for 2026.
Aliyah, who will begin 11th grade this fall at Allegany-Limestone Central School, raised $475 in pledges from family and friends, accounting for more than one-fifth of the event's total $2,200 in individual pledges during the May 13 event in Olean.
Her inspiration comes from someone very close to her heart.
"My grandma, Shelley Brian, inspired me to raise money for HomeCare & Hospice," said Aliyah. "Hospice helped my papa's mom and dad before they passed away, and my grandma's parents are 89-years-old. I hope hospice will be there for them if they ever need it. I raised money by asking my family and friends if they would like to donate. It's great to be the top individual fundraiser again this year. It's a great cause, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to help raise money for hospice."
Melissa Sullivan, President & CEO of HomeCare & Hospice, said Aliyah's commitment demonstrates how one person can make a meaningful difference.
"Aliyah's continued commitment is something to celebrate," Sullivan said. "She didn't just participate once. She came back for a second year because she believes in our mission and understands the difference hospice care makes for local families. Young people like Aliyah remind us that compassion grows when it's shared, and we're incredibly grateful for her support."
Proceeds from the Hospice Hope Walk, Bike & Run benefit the HomeCare & Hospice Foundation, helping provide compassionate hospice care and supportive services for patients and families throughout Allegany, Cattaraugus, Genesee, and Wyoming counties.
The community is invited to save the date for the 2027 Hospice Hope Walk, Bike & Run, scheduled for Wednesday, May 12, 2027. For more information, call 716-372-2106 or email snegron@homecare-hospice.org.