Aaron Pearce, general counsel for Continental Western Group in Des Moines, will be the 2016 March for Babies chair, the March of Dimes announced. The event, which is the charity’s largest annual fundraiser, is aimed at raising money as well as awareness of the need for research funding for babies born prematurely or with birth defects. More than 10 percent of the babies born each year in central Iowa are born prematurely, according to March of Dimes. Last year in Des Moines, more than $240,000 was raised. Pearce said he will focus on recruiting new companies to participate and leading the community in making a difference for the health of moms and babies. Central Iowa residents can sign up online today and start a team with co-workers, family or friends for the event, which will be held May 7, 2016.