Fundraiser honors memory of South Fayette teen

Walk and Roll

Fundraiser honors memory of South Fayette teen

By Andrea Iglar

For the fifth year, the Miles for Smiles 5K on the Montour Trail is set to honor the legacy of Bennett Huibregtse of South Fayette.

In 2020, the 16-year-old died as the result of multiple complex disabilities, and his parents, Dean and Kristin Huibregtse, launched the nonprofit Always B Smiling.

Kristin and Dean Huibregtse, foreground, of South Fayette founded the Always B Smiling nonprofit in memory of their son, Bennett.

Submitted photos

The organization holds the annual fundraiser so it can provide free programs to children, teens and young adults with disabilities, along with their families and caregivers.

Program highlights include adaptive biking, sports and yoga, along with art, music and nature exploration.

Eli Gallagher participates in the Miles for Smiles 5K in 2024.

Vice president Gina Esch of South Fayette, whose son participates in Always B Smiling programs, said the event is inclusive and welcoming.

“For us, it really is that opportunity to bring together our program participants with general members of the community," she said.

Michael Quinn, left, enjoys the 5K with his father, John Quinn, on the Montour Trail.

Miles for Smiles is set for Sun. July 20 at the Always B Smiling Activity and Learning Center, 106 Valleybrook Road in Peters.

Registration opens at 8 a.m., and activities start at 9:10 a.m. Participants may walk, run or roll for as long or as little as desired.

Registration is free, and donations are encouraged. Food, live music and activities follow the 5K and a 116-yard dash for kids.

Find details, register and donate at alwaysbsmiling.org.