By Teah Harris
Staff Writer
The Skechers Pier-to-Pier Friendship Walk took place in Manhattan Beach on Oct. 30 to raise money and support the Friendship Foundation and local school districts.
Over 100 companies and schools participated in the walk, raising more than $3 million, according to the Friendship Walk official website. Walkers met at the Manhattan Beach pier for the opening ceremony to start their 3.5-mile long journey.
“My favorite thing about the Skechers Walk is walking because it [supports] education and those with special needs,” said senior Madison Calder.
The money raised will be donated to the Friendship Foundation and used to help children with special needs. According to the Friendship Foundation, its mission is to bring friendship to those with special needs as well as encourage community awareness and involvement to advocate for the individuals.
“I think [the walk is] a good way to raise money because it’s for a good cause, and it really brings the whole community together to support,” said senior Tillman Cummings. “Not only that but walking isn’t something too hard to do, so it’s not like it requires much skill or effort to do.”
Cheerleaders from South Bay schools were lined up throughout the walk to encourage walkers. According to senior Nicole Fasano, having the cheerleaders be a part of this event gives them a chance to feel more connected to their community and brings smiles to the walkers.
“I liked cheering at the Skechers walk because I got to support a really great foundation and know that I was helping make a difference,” said freshman Shaylen Mullaney. “My favorite part was handing out the medals to everyone once they finished the walk. Seeing their smiling faces knowing that they did something great was really inspiring.”
There were various food booths located north of the pier, including Kinecta ice cream and Raising Cane’s lemonade. These booth’s offered a place for walkers to get food and allowed companies to promote their products.
“The food stands that are placed out are a great way to attract more people to come and support the walk,” said junior Sara Sullivan. “Having these stands placed is a super strategic way for advertising and a perfect way for the walkers to get a reward.”
The event was supported by various sponsors such as Kinecta, Nickelodeon, Los Angeles Chargers and more. Each sponsor got its own booth, where it was able to promote its business by giving out free items to the walkers.
“All in all, I think the walk is an enjoyable way for the community to raise money while others get exercise and enjoyment out of it,” said junior Georgia McKnight.
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