Recap: Buehler YMCA’s Miles for Smiles

Buehler YMCA’s recent Miles for Smiles event was a huge success, and we’re excited to share the results!  

The event encouraged participants to log miles through a variety of activities, and the turnout was incredible. A total of 1,379 miles were tracked across 21 different activities. Whether it was walking, running, swimming, weightlifting, basketball, Zumba, or even hula hooping, there was an activity for everyone in attendance! 

With fun options from intense workouts like strength training, functional fitness, and spinning to low-impact activities like gymnastics, soccer, and playtime, Miles for Smiles provided a chance for every participant to get moving and contribute to a great cause. The Buehler Y was buzzing with activity, with 20% more people attending than on a typical Saturday. 

Not only was the event a celebration of community and fitness, Miles for Smiles also raised an impressive $21,136.77 which will go toward supporting scholarships for youth programs at Buehler Y. Special thanks to Michael the Magician — a huge hit! — whose performance drew over 50 attendees and raised an additional $500 through donations, adding even more magic to the day. 

Miles for Smiles also had a noticeable impact on class participation. We saw an increase in attendance, particularly in Zumba with Nori and Total Body with Agnes. The energy and excitement surrounding Miles for Smiles encouraged participants to join not just for the day’s activities but also for their regular classes. Many of our regular members even came down to log their miles, which created an even stronger sense of community and shared goals. 

This event shows just how committed our community is to staying active, having fun, and supporting a great cause. We are already excited about next year’s event. Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, and donated to make this event such a success! 

Save the date for the next Miles for Smiles, which will be Saturday, February 26, 2026. Here's to many more miles — and smiles — together!