After 17 years, California pier walk raises record $3.3 million with celebrity supporters in 2026

A community walk that began as an effort to support children with special needs has grown into one of Southern California's major annual charity events, bringing together thousands of participants, celebrities and corporate sponsors. What started as a local fundraising initiative has now raised millions of dollars for children, students and young adults, helping fund educational opportunities, inclusive programmes and facilities designed to support independence.According to an October 23, 2026, announcement by the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA), the 18th annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk raised a record $3.3 million. Organised by the Skechers Foundation and the Friendship Foundation, with Nickelodeon as presenting sponsor, the event attracted more than 24,000 registrants. Among its supporters were boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard, television host Brooke Burke, actor Nate Simon and baseball players Chris Taylor, Kyle Karros and Jared Karros.How a community walk became a major charity eventThe Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk brings together families, students, volunteers, celebrities and businesses for a 3.4-mile journey along Southern California's South Bay coastline. The annual event supports children with special needs, public school education and college scholarships. Over its 18-year history, the initiative has raised $35 million, according to Skechers president and walk co-founder Michael Greenberg.