Dozens of Students Shop after ‘Miles for Smiles’ Fundraiser

Thanks to the Miles for Smiles campaign, the faces of over five dozen students lit up Saturday morning as they shopped for back-to-school clothes and shoes at Academy Sports + Outdoors. Each had $150 to spend after the local fundraiser netted nearly $10,000. 

“When I started the idea of what became The Fayette 50: Miles for Smiles, I was unsure of how much support the community would give. But as I walked the 50 miles, I was overwhelmed by support from everyone at FCPS, the Fayette Education Foundation, friends, family, and the community,” said Jeremy Day, a school resource officer at Garden Springs and James Lane Allen elementaries. In late July, his hours-long route through Lexington included nearly 30 of our elementary campuses. “Seeing the impact of over 60 students being able to shop for clothing items that they can feel confident in and be proud of makes the many miles worth it all,” he said this weekend.

The nonprofit Fayette Education Foundation had worked alongside Day to raise awareness of families in Fayette County Public Schools who needed a helping hand with essentials. Executive Director Carrie Boling said Academy Sports also donated $2,000. In the end, 63 youngsters were invited to shop – mostly 5- to 11-year-olds. 

“Academy Sports + Outdoors was proud to partner with the Fayette Education Foundation and support the Miles for Smiles initiative,” said store director Michael Glass. “We know that having the right gear can help students feel prepared and confident, and we're grateful for the opportunity to support local families.”