As August comes to a close, the eighth annual Integrity Worldwide Run for Kenya draws nearer.

The race, set to take place Sept. 23 in downtown Selma, is a fundraiser for Integrity to raise money for the people in Kenya. This time, the funds will go toward completing a medical clinic in Meto, Kenya.

“We are so excited and can’t believe that’s it’s only right under a month away,” said Elizabeth Gilmer, race coordinator. “We are actively getting ready for it and finishing up the last details. We’re looking forward to having everyone join us.”

Gilmer said people have already been registering, and she is encouraging people to go ahead and do so. “Online registration is active and people have begun registering,” Gilmer said. “We still need runners and we want people to continue to register and they can do that up until the day of [the race].”

Gilmer said they are still wanted volunteers to help out on the day of the race, as well as local sponsors.

“Another thing that we’re looking for is local sponsors. That’s another huge part of the money we raise,” Gilmer said.

“Another big thing we need is volunteers. Volunteers are what make the event happen. We usually have about 100 or so volunteers and we still need people to join us.”

Gilmer said those interested in volunteering can contact her through her email, Elizabeth.gilmer@gmail.com.

Gilmer said people can also sponsor runners, to provide youth that don’t have the funds to participate in the annual run.

“That allows us to give scholarships to local students that may not be able to pay the registration fee, but want to be able to run,” Gilmer said.

Back again this year are the race’s unique medals.

All of the medals were hand made in Meto by the local ladies.

“That’s one of my favorite details of the event, just to know women in Meto actually made them and they made them knowing what they were going to be used for,” Gilmer said. “They have been praying for the people that will receive them and praying for this event. It’s a really neat way for them to be involved and be hands on with the Run for Kenya.”

Gilmer said she is looking forward to the event and is excited for it to get here so they can put the finishing touches on the medical clinic.

“We can’t wait. It’s so close to being done and all of the funds that are raised from this are going to allow us to complete it. We’re down to the last part of construction,” Gilmer said.

“Those that are coming to run and are partnering with us are truly going to be a part of finishing off the medical clinic and being a part of providing dental and medical care for thousands of people for the first time ever.”

Registration is now open and those wanting to participate can go ahead and sign up at IntegrityWorldwide.org. The cost is $25 in advance and $30 the day of and includes a race bag with a t-shirt.