Skechers held its annual Pier to Pier Friendship Walk last weekend at Manhattan Pier Beach, setting both attendance and donations records in support of education and children with special needs.
The walk drew more than 12,000 participants and raised more than $1.4 million, surpassing the company’s goal of $1.2 million. Since its 2009 launch, the walk has continually hit new participation and donation highs each year.
Skechers also enlisted the help of celebrity supporters, including boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard in his first appearance at the event, as well as TV personality Brooke Burke-Charvet, fitness expert Denise Austin and Hall of Fame baseball manager Tommy Lasorda, who have all made multiple appearances throughout the walk’s history.
“The wave of support that climbs year after year in honor of our kids is incredible,” said Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers. “When we started the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk seven years ago, 1,800 of us hit the beach to raise $220,000– and since then, our walkers have grown six-fold– with more than $5.5 million donated over the years, all dedicated to enrich and inspire our children.”
“The Skechers family has had a vision, and it keeps growing,” added Burke-Charvet. “It is so amazing to see everyone come out. Together, we make a difference, and we increase the power of community.”