The nation’s leading walk series dedicated to congenital heart defect research continues to grow in impact and community support.
ROCHESTER, MI, March 2026 – The Children’s Heart Foundation is proud to announce that Rick Young Insurance and Grateful Giving Foundation will return as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 Detroit Congenital Heart Walk—marking their fourth consecutive year of commitment to advancing congenital heart defect (CHD) research.
The Congenital Heart Walk is the nation’s largest walk series solely dedicated to raising funds for congenital heart defect research, bringing together Heart Warriors, families, medical professionals, and supporters united by one mission: to improve and extend the lives of those affected by CHDs.
Congenital heart defects, or CHDs, are America’s most common birth defect, affecting nearly 40,000 babies each year; this equates to one baby every 15 minutes. While survival rates have improved, many individuals still face lifelong challenges, underscoring the urgent need for continued research and innovation.
As trusted members of the local community, Rick Young Insurance and Grateful Giving Foundation are deeply committed to making a meaningful difference. Their continued support of The Children’s Heart Foundation reflects a shared belief in the power of research to transform outcomes and bring hope to families facing CHD.
“We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing partnership of Rick Young Insurance and Grateful Giving Foundation,” said [CHF Representative Name/Title]. “Their leadership as Presenting Sponsor not only fuels critical research but also inspires our entire community to come together in support of every child and adult living with a congenital heart defect.”
The 2026 Detroit Congenital Heart Walk will take place on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Rochester Municipal Park in Rochester, MI, bringing together hundreds of participants for a day of community, celebration, and hope. The event will feature family-friendly activities, opportunities to connect with others impacted by CHD, updates on the research being funded, and the signature one-mile walk that symbolizes hope for every heartbeat.
This year’s walk is especially meaningful as The Children’s Heart Foundation celebrates its 30th Anniversary, marking three decades of driving life-changing research and progress in the fight against CHDs. Since 1996, The Children’s Heart Foundation has funded nearly $21 million of CHD research, which has helped spark breakthroughs that are improving survival rates and quality of life for Heart Warriors of all ages.
Participants are invited to register as walkers, team captains, or volunteers, or to support the cause through a donation. To get involved, visit: events.chfwalk.org/event/detroitwalk
Together, we are not just walking—we are fueling discovery, advancing care, and creating a future where every Heart Warrior has the chance to live a longer, healthier life.
