In 2016, we came up with an idea to raise money to send kids to Camp SMILE who are in need of financial assistance. We called it “Miles for SMILEs.” Lilia Melikechi and Jake Alvarez walked 137 miles from Mobile, Alabama to New Orleans, Louisiana in only 5 days. We set a goal of $1,500, or enough to donate 5 camperships to deserving families. The response was incredible. In just over 3 weeks, we raised almost $10,000! The outpouring of support was so amazing that we promised to do it again.

A few years ago was our first time asking for teams of volunteers to walk with us and the reply was great! We set a new record of almost $15,000 raised. After an unexpected break due to covid we were unable to hold the event in 2020. This will be the 6th Miles for SMILEs and we are so excited to see what this year holds!

The dates for this year's event are Wednesday May 3-7. We will have 10, two-person teams that will walk 13.7 mile stretches, beginning in New Orleans and ending in Mobile. You will be able to show your support by sponsoring the team per mile, or by making a one-time donation.

Please help us make this year just as special so that we can give kids the experience of a lifetime! Click here to learn more about Camp SMILE.

Miles for SMILEs 2023

Support our 10 teams on their 13.7 mile walks/runs to support UCP's Camp SMILE

Team Members