The Duneland Family YMCA hosted its annual Pedal for a Purpose SPIN-A-THON, Spinning with Heart on Friday, February 20, bringing the community together for an evening of energy, teamwork, and generosity in support of the YMCA Annual Support Campaign. Funds raised through the Annual Support Campaign ensure that no one is turned away due to an inability to pay, providing financial assistance for memberships, child care, swim lessons, youth sports, and life-changing health and wellness programs.  

This year’s event welcomed 45 participants, forming nine teams of five riders who competed to raise the most funds and log the most miles. It was a record-breaking year for the event, with participants surpassing previous fundraising milestones and making an even greater impact on the community.

The YMCA is deeply grateful for the incredible support of our community supporters, whose generosity and belief in our mission helped make this event truly meaningful and impactful. This year’s sponsors include The Times Media Company, Crystal Soliday Realtor, Berglund Construction, Trout Glass and Mirror, Trinity Displays, AJ’s Pizza Co., Northshore Health Centers, PartyLyfe Entertainment, and Kilgore Trout. Their generosity and commitment to our mission played a vital role in the success of the event.

“The outstanding results of our 2026 Spin-a-thon are a powerful testament to the generosity and spirit of our community,” said Dave Kasarda, Duneland Family YMCA CEO. “Every dollar raised will directly support our Annual Support Campaign, ensuring that YMCA programs, services, and memberships remain accessible to all — regardless of their ability to pay. This is what the Y is all about: strengthening our community and making sure everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.”

The first-place fundraising team was awarded to Team Love Handles, made up of Jessica Amling, Ramona Catherman, Karen Karriman, Lana Reiser and Jim Trout. The top individual fundraiser honors went to Izzy Hutnick for her outstanding efforts leading up to the event.

Competition on the bikes was fierce, with two teams tying for the most miles at 63 each. Clark Gloyeske and Mark Dickinson also led the way individually, each riding 15 miles for the highest mileage of the evening.

“I’m so proud of the energy and community spirit we had during our 2026 Spin-A-Thon,” said Julianne Schager, Director of Healthy Living. “Events like this remind us of the power of coming together to move, support one another, and make a lasting impact. We’re so grateful to every participant, sponsor, volunteer, and supporter who helped make this year’s Spin-A-Thon a huge success!”

The YMCA is incredibly grateful to the community partners who helped make this event so special. Thank you to AJ’s Pizza for keeping our riders fueled, to DJ Angel from PartyLyfe Entertainment for donating his time and bringing unforgettable energy to the room, and to The Times Media Company for providing an amazing United Center suite experience for our top fundraising team. Their generosity and support truly made the night one to remember. 2026 Pedal for a Purpose SPIN-A-THON is more than a ride. It is the YMCA mission in motion. Every mile pedaled and every dollar raised directly supports programs that promote healthy living, strengthen community connections, and expand access to essential services across the Duneland community. As a result of this support, more children, families, and seniors will be able to participate in life-changing YMCA programs and gain the resources, relationships, and support they need to reach their full potential.