The Niles-Buchanan YMCA is calling all artists — and non-artists for that matter — to design the logo for this year’s annual Thanksgiving Day run.

The contest is open to the public and people of all ages.

Alexa Tupper, marketing coordinator for the YMCA, said involving the community in the logo design contest is a great way to bring everyone together for the Thanksgiving holiday.

“It’s especially fitting because the holiday itself is focused on appreciation and togetherness, and we wanted to put the spotlight on the thriving artist community while bringing them into the running aspect as well,” she said. “On top of that, it’s a great opportunity for local artists to get their work out in the community.”

This is the second year that the Niles-Buchanan YMCA has offered the Thanksgiving Day run logo contest.

Tupper said a YMCA staff member heard about the idea of a logo contest while at a different race.

“We were looking for a fresh way to engage the community members in the Thanksgiving Day Run,” she said, “and the contest provides an opportunity for others to get involved who may not enjoy running but still love the tradition and history behind the race.”

Last year’s contest was a hit, with many people entering their logo designs.

Pamela Alphenaar, of Niles, was the winner of last year’s logo design.

Those wanting to take part in this year’s contest must email an entry to atupper@nb-ymca.com or mail it to or drop it off at the Niles-Buchanan YMCA from Sept. 5 through 9.

One grand-prize winner will be chosen by the Thanksgiving Day Run committee Sept. 13. The winner will receive a banner with their logo, five race T-shirts, five free race entries, and a free YMCA membership for six months.

An entry form and contest details can be found online at nb-ymca.org.

The YMCA has been offering a Thanksgiving Day race for the past 35 years. Proceeds from the race go to the YMCA’s annual campaign — a fundraising initiative designed to support programming at the Y and provide financial support to families through membership scholarships.

Runners have the opportunity to run a 10K, 5K, or a Family 1-mile fun run. You can register in person at Niles-Buchanan YMCA or visit wrunsignup.com.