The Niles-Buchanan YMCA is announcing its first Thanksgiving Day Run logo contest.

This year the Y is asking all local artists and graphic designers to put their skills to the test by designing the logo for the 2015 Thanksgiving Day Run. This contest is open to the public. Artists and graphic designers of all ages are encouraged to enter.

All entries must be dropped off or mailed to the Niles-Buchanan YMCA on Sept. 4. One grand prize winner will be chosen by the Thanksgiving Day Run committee. The winner will be announced on Sept. 10. Visit www.nb-ymca.com for an official entry form and contest details.

The winner will receive a banner with their logo, 10 race T-shirts, five free race entries, and a free YMCA membership for six months.

“We are excited to announce to the community that we will be having a logo contest for the design of the logo for the 35th annual Thanksgiving Day Run,” said Jill Haboush, race director, Niles-Buchanan YMCA. “We want to inspire the community to get involved/interested with the Thanksgiving Day Run now.  The event has been a staple in the community for years.

“Proceeds from the Thanksgiving Day Run benefit our Strong Kids Campaign. We look forward to seeing a variety of designs. How fun would it be to see your design on 2,500 shirts and all the marketing literature?”

For 34 years the Niles-Buchanan YMCA has been holding a Thanksgiving Day Race. It has become a tradition for many who live or visit the Niles-Buchanan community over the Thanksgiving holiday. All proceeds from this race go directly to our Strong Kids Campaign. The Strong Kids Campaign is an annual fundraising initiative designed to supplement the cost of providing support to families in our shared community.

The generous contributions of our community during 2014 provided 872 individuals and families with $113,676 in scholarships. Every dollar of funds given provides a membership for those who cannot afford it.

The Niles-Buchanan YMCA Thanksgiving Day Run is the largest most popular run in the Michiana area. Runners have the opportunity to run a 10k, 5k or a Family one-mile fun run.

Registration will be coming soon. You can register in person at Niles-Buchanan YMCA or visit www.classicrace.com.