The 2024 Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk broke previous records with its fundraising and participant turnout accomplishments. This beloved annual event, held along the scenic coastline of Manhattan Beach, raised over $3.4 million—well above its $2.5 million goal.
Nearly 22,000 participants gathered to support children with special needs and public education.
This year, it marked the event’s 16th anniversary. Co-founder Michael Greenberg described it as a “sweet 16 celebration” that won’t soon be forgotten. “This year was one for the ages,” Greenberg said, noting Nickelodeon’s role as an incredible co-sponsor.
Many companies, families, and volunteers returned to support the mission. These supporters have been essential in expanding the Walk’s impact, transforming it from a local movement to one of California’s most significant youth-focused events.
Since its inception, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk has raised more than $27 million. The Walk’s funds have helped create opportunities for children with special needs, expand resources for public schools, and support college scholarships.
Returning sponsor Nickelodeon and celebrities like Brooke Burke and Sugar Ray Leonard helped rally participants. Burke, attending for the 13th time, noted how engaged participants have become. “Everyone has seen the incredible good this has done for an entire generation of children,” she said, adding that families continue to invite friends to support the cause.
This year’s funds will contribute to building the Friendship Campus, a transformative project set to open in 2026. Named The Greenberg Family / Skechers Center, the $55 million, 3.25-acre campus will provide a nurturing environment for young neurodiverse adults.
With specialized vocational programs, the campus aims to equip these young adults with lifelong skills and purpose.
The Friendship Campus will feature a Creative Arts Center, a Culinary Institute, and a Recreation Center. Each facility will offer vocational programs that enable young adults to find their passions and develop life skills. Additionally, Life Skills workshops will prepare them to transition to the workforce.
This campus will also become the new headquarters for the Friendship Foundation, a nonprofit that champions inclusivity and acceptance of all abilities. The Foundation offers over 60 programs, including art, music, fitness, and social-emotional wellness.
Virtual activities, such as scavenger hunts and talent shows, expand the Foundation’s reach and make its resources available nationwide.
Funds from the Walk also play a crucial role in supporting public education. Local school districts use these funds yearly to improve libraries, labs, and essential facilities. Thanks to these resources, teachers’ positions, often vulnerable during budget cuts, have been protected.
The Skechers Foundation also offers national college scholarships. Over $1.1 million has been awarded to students with financial need, academic excellence, athletic talent, and leadership skills. This support allows talented students to pursue higher education without financial barriers.
Many stars from popular shows joined the celebration this year, adding energy and excitement. The cast of Love on the Spectrum and Greenwood Grove, as well as performers from the bands Homeschool and Raised Wrong, appeared. America’s Got Talent Golden Buzzer winner Madison Taylor Baez also performed, captivating the crowd.
Pet adoption events added to the family-friendly atmosphere. Partnering with Petco Love and The Lovejoy Foundation, the Walk allowed participants to adopt animals needing a home.
The Walk has drawn many famous faces, attracting actors, athletes, and Young Hollywood celebrities. Mr. T, Amanda Kloots, Tony Romo, Howie Long, and Meb Keflezighi have all lent their support. This tradition continued this year, with stars from Nickelodeon, Disney, Netflix, and more showing up to inspire and engage with the community.
Corporate sponsors were vital to the Walk’s success. Nickelodeon led as the presenting sponsor, helping spread awareness and raise funds. Other sponsors, including Kinecta Federal Credit Union, Rare Beauty, and Mattel, contributed significantly to the event’s impact.
Top companies like Bank of America, Chevron, and Ross Stores joined, each committed to supporting youth-focused initiatives. Their contributions make this event possible and amplify its reach every year. More than 30 sponsors participated, helping the Walk support thousands of children.
Each year, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk grows in size and influence. The upcoming Friendship Campus, scheduled to open in 2026, will allow even more young people to benefit from its programs.
The event’s influence reaches California and beyond by supporting children with special needs, funding educational resources, and helping aspiring college students. Participants return each year because they see the tangible effects of their efforts.
Greenberg and his team have already started planning for next year’s Walk. Each year brings new ideas and fresh ways to expand the Walk’s mission. Through their hard work, the event will continue to grow, reaching more children and creating new opportunities for youth.
As the Friendship Campus prepares to open, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk’s vision for a better future feels closer than ever. The Walk’s impact, combined with the Friendship Campus’s resources, promises to shape the lives of countless children and young adults.