Local non-profit organization Integrity Worldwide is bringing New York Times bestselling author Bob Goff to Selma on Dec. 12 for “Love Selma, a Night with Bob Goff” at the Selma High Auditorium.

Integrity Worldwide Founders Allan and Averee Hicks reached out to Goff after reading his most recent publication, “Everybody Always.”

After discovering that many of their friends had also read Goff’s book, the two thought “This guy needs to come to Selma.”

Averee said that Goff’s message of love, patience and kindness is one that the city of Selma can benefit from.

“[Goff] has a passion for inspiring radical change through love and we’re excited to have him challenge us to love deeper and more authentically,” said Averee. “We believe that a night with Bob [Goff] will be an excellent catalyst for the change of Selma”

Averee said that “Everybody Always” is an excellent read and encourages those interested in reading the book before Goff’s arrival in Selma to pick up a copy at One Way Bookstore on Broad Street Across from Selma High School.

“I’m so looking forward to being with the people of Selma, Alabama and sharing more about living a life of love, purpose and connection,” said Goff.

The event is not only a chance to share Goff’s message of love with Selma, but a fundraiser for Integrity Worldwide.

According to Allan and Averee, Integrity Worldwide began 13 years ago to rebuild, renew and restore Maasai villages in southern rural Kenya that have been affected by extreme poverty through medical and dental care, clean water, education and ministry.

“When we started this, our end goal was for the village to be self-sufficient,’ said Averee.

After 13 years of support, the organization is close to achieving that goal.

According to Allan, Integrity Worldwide has constructed a clinic with nine employees that serve the area.

All proceeds raised through the event will go to the aforementioned Integrity Health Medical and Dental Clinic in Meto, Kenya.

Through the event, Integrity Worldwide plans to raise the remaining funds needed to transfer ownership of the clinic to the Meto community, achieving their goal of self- sustainability.

Tickets for “Love Selma, a Night with Bob Goff” can be purchased at integritywordwide.org, the Selma – Dallas County Public Library or the Selma – Dallas County Chamber of Commerce for $10.

VIP Tickets, which include reserved seating and access to a meet and greet with Goff, are $250.

“We want to see the auditorium filled,” said Averee.

Integrity Worldwide is also encouraging local businesses to become sponsors of the event.

To become a sponsor, call Elizabeth Gilmer at (334) 412-3496.