When Shane Arcadia first took on the challenge of running 100 miles across the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties, the goal was to create something that could bring people together in support of teens.
Three years later, 100 Miles for Kidss has grown into an association-wide effort, with runners, staff, donors, and community members coming together to raise funds for teen leadership opportunities and youth programs across Pierce and Kitsap counties.
The event began with one runner and a big idea. Shane ran the full 100 miles himself, creating a route that connected YMCA centers and camps across the association. Today, that vision continues to grow, with more runners representing more centers and helping build momentum at every step along the way.
“This will be our third year hosting the run, and each year we’ve continued to grow both participation and community support,” Shane said.
Over the past two years 100 Miles for Kids has raised nearly $20,000. Last year alone, the event welcomed 122 new donors in support of the YMCA’s mission. The goal for this year’s event is $25,000.
Shane still remembers reaching the finish line during the first year and seeing people from centers across the association waiting to welcome him.
“That really symbolizes why we do this event in the first place,” he said.
This year’s run will once again begin in Silverdale at the Haselwood Family YMCA, traveling across Kitsap County to the Bremerton Family YMCA, Camp Seymour, Camp Lake Helena, and the Tom Taylor Family YMCA in Gig Harbor, before crossing the Narrows Bridge to reach the three Tacoma YMCAs, then on to the Lakewood Family YMCA, the Mel Korum Family YMCA in Puyallup, and ending at the Gordon Family YMCA in Sumner.
New this year, each center has a point person helping coordinate updates, logistics, and support. Staff and community members will also have an opportunity to purchase shirts to show their support for the runners.
The 2026 event is also piloting a relay team, with the hope that future years will include relay teams from each center.
Funds raised through the 100 Miles for Kids will support programs like Counselors in Training and Teen Late Nite, helping young people build confidence, develop leadership skills, and stay connected to positive opportunities in their communities.
“I’ve just been stoked about where we’re going with this and how we’ll continue to grow,” Shane said.