Miles for a Mission

The Force was strong with our community this year!

We recently wrapped up our annual virtual race fundraiser, Miles for a Mission, and what an incredible journey it was. Since our adventure began on May the 4th, we kept our Star Wars theme alive and invited our community of Padawans, Jedi Masters, walkers, runners, cyclists, swimmers, and fitness enthusiasts to unite for a month-long mission.

The results were truly out of this galaxy:

⭐ 75 athletes participated
⭐ 8,348 miles logged
⭐ 11,202 fitness engagements completed
⭐ More than $5,300 raised to support the YMCA mission

But this race was about much more than numbers.

Participants logged miles from all across the country. For Kimi, one of the highlights was racing alongside family members in Utah, Minnesota, Chicago, and Alaska. Even though they were hundreds of miles apart, they were connected by a shared goal and a shared commitment to the Y.

Our longtime YMCA champion, Cathy Howard, once again showed what dedication looks like. Cathy logged an incredible 521 miles during the month (second only to Brandy's astonishing 533 miles) and raised $327 to support YMCA programs and services. Cathy continues to be a true YMCA superstar.

Then there's Lucy, a spunky 13-year-old who reminds us what community is all about. Although illness kept her from completing the full 102-mile challenge and sidelined her for more than eight days, she still raised over $600 for the Y. The YMCA has been Lucy's second home since she was three years old, and her story is a beautiful example of the lifelong connections built within these walls.

We were also inspired by YSF participants like Marilyn Shaw, who used her race experience to connect with friends and celebrate personal milestones. After completing the challenge, Marilyn proudly shared her certificate online and invited friends to support the YMCA in honor of her upcoming 77th birthday. Her enthusiasm paid off—friends answered the call and donated to the cause. She also added, "Can’t wait to show this to my LVAD team at New York Presbyterian/Columbia Cardiac Clinic!"

All this fun was added to from the generous support of our race sponsors, who donated fantastic prizes and helped make the event even more exciting. Special thanks to:

Ty's Taco-ria

Bella Michael's

NY Goat Yoga

Baked & Brewed

Gavin's Pizza

Toscana's

Tino's Pizza

Charlotte Valley Railroad

Unadilla House of Consignment

…and many more!

Every participant had their own reason for joining the race. Some wanted to improve their fitness. Some wanted to support the Y. Some enjoyed the friendly competition. Others simply wanted to be part of something bigger than themselves.

No matter how they participated, together they helped create something truly meaningful: a healthier, happier, and more connected community.

To our participants, sponsors, donors, and supporters: thank you. Your generosity helps ensure that the YMCA remains far more than a gym. We are a place where people belong, where families grow, where friendships are built, and where everyone is welcome regardless of what their fitness journey looks like.

Thank you for helping us continue our mission and for proving that when our community comes together, amazing things happen.

No Place Like This Place!