Selma Walking Club to meet at Riverfront Amphitheater Saturday morning as part of Back to School Bash

The Selma Walking Club will take its weekly walk to the Selma Riverfront Amphitheater this Saturday, Aug. 1 to be part of a large back to school celebration for children. 

Justin Rudolph, founder of the club, said they will meet at the Water Avenue amphitheater on Saturday morning instead of their Bloch Park location so they can be a part of the Back to School Bash hosted by a group of organizers.

Rudolph said the club plays a role in helping families prepare for the new school year and supports the businesses, community partners and volunteers who will be giving away school supplies. 

After their walk, members will shift to helping vendors and organizers. 

The event will be held inside the gates of the amphitheater next to the George Evans Building. Rudolph said anyone who wants to take part only needs to show up. The walk begins at 7:30 a.m. and the book bag and school supplies giveaway starts at 9 a.m. He said tents will be set up and volunteers will be posted throughout the area to help families.

The Selma Walking Club is free and provides water, fruit and other hydration items at no cost. “The Selma walking club is 100 percent free,” he said.

During the back to school walk, club members will spend time engaging with children, encouraging them to stay active and talking with them about their needs. Rudolph said listening to kids is an important part of the club’s mission. He said some families may need tutoring help, food assistance or clothing, and the club works with schools and partners to support those needs. He said, “You have to actually listen and talk to the kids to understand their needs because every household needs is going to be different.”

Rudolph said anyone who wants to donate or help the club can call him at 334-267-0805 or email selmawalkingclub@gmail.com.