Skechers Foundation celebrated its ninth record-breaking Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk for children last week at the Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach, California – presenting more than 510 000 US dollars to The Friendship Foundation in support of kids with special needs and over 1 million US dollars for education foundations. The organization also announced the continuation of its annual Skechers Foundation Scholarship Program, and will award 100 000 US dollars in college scholarships for the 2018-2019 school year.

“Over nearly a decade, the Skechers Friendship Walk has enabled thousands of children to thrive – with millions of dollars that have made kids with special needs and our schools a top priority,” said Michael Greenberg, President of Skechers, adding: “The Walk has broken attendance and donation records every year since it started.”

Legendary boxer and Skechers ambassador Sugar Ray Leonard commented: “Scholarships don’t just give kids the ability to pursue higher education – they also give them more confidence and motivation to follow their dreams. This prestigious program has helped ambitious students from all over the country attend top state and Ivy League schools including Emory, Penn, Dartmouth and Brown – and I’m so proud to back a brand that inspires our kids to excel.”

In addition to new community service scholarships for exceptional Friendship Foundation volunteers, the Skechers Foundation will continue to award more than a dozen 1 000 US dollars to 5 000 US dollars scholarships to  deserving students nationwide based on financial need, academic performance, athletic abilities and leadership qualities.

The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk has grown into California’s largest charity event for children with special needs and education – raising 9 million US dollars and uniting more than 67 000 participants since its inception. Funds have supported The Friendship Foundation’s programs and events for children with special needs and their families, as well as educational foundations’ commitments to saving teachers’ jobs, retaining vital academic programs, maintaining smaller class sizes and upgrading school libraries, facilities and technology.