Aria Garcia, Bronx Student and Boxer Celebrated as Finalist for Mayor Award
- Guest Contributor
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
We are proud to share that one of our very own students, Aria Garcia, was selected as a finalist for the prestigious Mayoral Service Recognition Program’s Youth Impact Award for her volunteer work with Ring of Hope.
At just 13 years old, Aria is already making waves across New York City with her commitment to youth wellness and community service. Her contributions included using boxing as a form of alternative therapy for high-risk youth. The initiative provides a safe space for young people to release stress, build confidence, and tap into new career pathways - all through the empowering lens of sport.
The certificate, presented by Mayor, Eric Adams, on behalf of NYC Service, celebrates young New Yorkers who are using their voice, passion, and creativity to uplift their communities. Aria’s project was selected out of hundreds of applicants and advanced to the final round, where it was highlighted for public voting.
Although she didn’t take home the top prize, Aria was honored as a finalist and invited to a special recognition ceremony at Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor of New York City. There, she was celebrated alongside other change-makers across the five boroughs. Being acknowledged in such a historic setting speaks volumes about Aria’s leadership and the impact of her service.
Aria’s journey with Ring of Hope began at Baychester Middle School as part of our boxing and entrepreneurship program. She quickly rose, not only for her commitment inside the ring but for her vision beyond it. She first interned as a content creator, helping develop videos for our social media platforms. This past spring, she transitioned into a leadership role as an Assistant Boxing Coach, initially volunteering during her school program at Baychester, then spending her summer supporting our camps.
What started as a school-based opportunity has now grown into a citywide recognition. Aria continues to inspire both her peers and the younger generation of students coming up behind her. We're beyond proud of the leader she is becoming, and the light she brings to Ring of Hope.
We also want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who voted for Aria during the public voting round! The campaign brought out incredible community support, from staff and students at Baychester Middle School to members of Mendez Boxing, where Aria also trains. Mendez Boxing, one of our key site partners located in Harlem, not only gives us space to host Ring of Hope activities outside of school hours, but also played a huge role in helping us organize the campaign. The love and encouragement from the community meant the world to Aria, and we’re excited to include some campaign photos in this blog to celebrate that moment.
Be sure to follow us as we support more young leaders like Aria who are shaping the future of their communities.
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