As we welcome the Dougherty and Hugenbruch families
more information will be available in early March about the
14th Annual Walk on Saturday, June 20, 2026!
Consider making a donation today in memory of Christopher Dougherty and Daniel
Hugenbruch today to support the 529 education plan funds of
Kiera, Dilan, Emilia, and Eloise.
The Walk’s Mission
Brave Hearts for Strong Minds (BHSM) (EIN 45-3973220) was started in 2012 after beloved community member Tom Reilly suddenly passed away, leaving behind his wife and four young children. For children who have lost a parent, there can be lasting emotional and social hurdles, along with struggles to pay for higher education. Reflecting on Tom’s compassion and friendship, each year, the Saturday before Father’s Day, BHSM holds a charity walk. While bringing together our community, the walk’s mission is to raise funds for the 529 Education Plans of children who have lost a parent.
Our 2026 Recipient Families
The Dougherty Family
Christopher (“Doc”) Dougherty (45) from Oreland, PA, was doing what he loved most when he passed in December 2023. Chris was a news photographer and journalist for 6ABC for over 19 years, who, along with his colleague, was lost too soon in a helicopter crash. He was a storyteller through and through and loved his work, whether in the air or on the ground, telling stories about people. Chris met Elaine O’Malley in 2004, and they married in 2007. With his passion for music and storytelling, he was a wonderful father to his two daughters, Kiera and Dilan. Coaching Kiera in various sports, and singing or strumming with Dilan. Doc’s passion for music and life is missed by those who knew him best.
The Hugenbruch Family
From Landsale, PA, Daniel Hugenbruch (48) was a devoted father, husband, technology educator, and coach. He first taught in the Upper Dublin School District, where he met Danielle DiPasquale. They soon became friends and quickly realized they were more than that. They went on to have two wonderful children, Emilia and Eloise, along with their family dog Stella. Despite his love for the Cardinals of UD, Daniel had the opportunity of a lifetime to transform the technology education program at Wissahickon High School. Dan worked at Wissahickon until his passing in August 2025 from Glioblastoma. He was a beloved coach for both the Cardinals and Trojans in multiple sports, including football, basketball, track, golf, and baseball. No matter how hard a coach or teacher Dan may have been, he was always looking at the joys in life, embracing the fun and unexpected turns. He was a girl dad, and encouraged Emilia and Eloise to explore anything, sports, music, art, and much more. He is greatly missed by Danielle, Emilia, Eloise, their entire family, and the UD/Wissahickon communities.
