Family to host benefit in Peters Township for Always B Smiling

An offer from a Bridgeville business owner is helping the nonprofit Always B Smiling live up to its name.

Founders Dean and Kristin Huibregtse’s certainly sported upside-down frowns when Tom Robinson, who owns T.A. Robinson Asphalt Paving Inc. on McLaughlin Run Road, told them he and members of his family would like to host an event on behalf of the organization.

As such, the second annual five-kilometer Miles for Smiles fundraiser is scheduled for the morning of July 24 at another of Robinson’s businesses, TAR Outdoor Storage, which abuts the Montour Trail at 107 Valley Brook Road in Peters Township.

“He was so gracious to say that we could use his land,” Kristin Huibregtse said. “We’re all about inclusivity. This is designed as a 5k event, but you can walk, run or roll for as long as you would like, or as little as you would like.”

The Huibregtses, who live in South Fayette, founded Always B Smiling in honor and memory of their son — “B” is for Bennett — to provide fun and memorable activities for children, teens and young adults with disabilities and health challenges.

“Bennett lived a life based largely on the kindness of others. Therefore, registration for this event will be in the spirit of donations,” his mother said about Miles for Smiles.

Along with the five-kilometer portion, the event also features a 116-yard Smile Dash for children.

“That’s in honor of Bennett, because he lived 16 years,” Kristin said.

Her and Dean’s son — “a joyful, loving, sweet, kind and an all-around amazing human being” — was afflicted with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, a rare genetic disorder. Despite the condition, he was able to enjoy plenty of activities, including going for rides on specially designed bicycles.

With Bennett’s positive experiences in mind, the Huibregtses conduct an adaptive bike riding program from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturdays through Oct. 30 on the Montour Trail adjacent to the Tandem Connection in Cecil Township.

The trail, which has a spur a few miles away in Bethel Park, will be integral to Miles for Smiles, which begins in Peters Township with registration at 8 a.m. that Saturday. The Smile Dash is at 9, followed by the walk at 9:15, and food and festivities an hour later.

Featured are a bounce house, activities led by the Little Gym of Peters Township, a petting zoo presented by Horses With Hope, and treats from Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream. Also, Robinson will give tours of his extensive collection of classic vehicles and vintage memorabilia.

For more information, visit alwaysbsmiling.org and alwaysbsmiling.org/walk-2022.