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Feb 28, 2026 at 8 AM - Buehler YMCA

Buehler YMCA Miles for Smiles 2026

We are excited to invite you to log some miles with us on Saturday, February 28, 2026, as we raise funds in support of youth served by the Buehler YMCA. Since 2019, Miles for Smiles has logged thousands of miles and raised over $110,000, providing scholarships and financial assistance for summer camp, preschool, and sports programs. Every dollar raised directly supports youth and families in our community! 

This year marks the 8th annual Miles for Smiles Fundraiser, and we’re embracing a Magic 8 Ball theme — Will you help send a kid to summer camp this year? Signs point to yes! 

Event Details  

  • Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026 
  • Time: 7 a.m. - 12 p.m. 
  • Location: Buehler YMCA | 1400 W. Northwest Hwy., Palatine, IL 60067 

Choose from your favorite activity — run, walk, bike, swim, Zumba, strength train, play pickleball, or anything you love. Every 15 minutes of activity counts as one mile, and every mile makes a difference. 

As extra motivation, we’ve secured a $1-per-mile pledge up to $5,000, so every mile logged by participants will unlock additional support for local youth. You can also support our mission by making a donation at the bottom of this page.  

Get Involved 
Join us in any physical activity you enjoy and help us log miles toward our goal. 
To track your miles: 

  • Take a selfie and tag Buehler Y and or Miles for Smiles on Facebook 
  • Visit the Buehler Y front desk to enter your miles into our tracker 

There are also great options hosted inside our Community Hub throughout the day, including Cycle Studio, Body Conditioning, and Zumba classes. 

Bring the Family 
Make it a family day at the Y! Visit the Kids Zone at the Buehler Y (infant–12 years) featuring a bounce house, rock wall, tree house, and more. 

Not a YMCA member? No problem! All Miles for Smiles participants and their children receive complimentary access to the Buehler Y on February 28, 2026 — just stop by the front desk.

Make a Donation 
Consider making a tax‑deductible contribution to support our cause. Your donation will help us reach our fundraising goal of $18,888, with all funds supporting Buehler Y programs and services. 

Spread the Word 
Help amplify our mission by sharing this event with friends and family. Follow Miles for Smiles and the Buehler Y on Facebook, share our posts, and tag us in your own content to encourage others to get involved. 

Schedule of Activities 

  • 7:30 a.m. – Cycle with Kevin 
  • 8:45 a.m.– Strength & Stamina with Dawn 
  • 9 a.m. – Total Body+ with Agnes 
  • 11:45 a.m. –12:15 p.m. – Magic Show with Michael the Magician (Lobby) 
  • Before 12 p.m. – Stop by the front desk to log your miles 
  • 12:15 p.m. – Event Conclusion 

Thank you for helping us strengthen the Palatine and surrounding communities, one mile at a time. We can’t wait to make the 2026 Miles for Smiles our most magical year yet!