On Nov. 19, more than 60 people pounded the pavement to do their part in raising more than $1,500 to battle hunger in the Black Belt.

Clear blue skies and a willing community came together and made the first 5k Walk and Run Against Hunger an event that will likely continue into the future.

The Word Ministry Church representative Valerie Wagner said the support from the community was outstanding.

“This first event was very exciting and worthwhile for the wonderful cause that it represented,” she said. “We reached the goal we expected and then some. Several people donated even if they didn’t do the walk.”

Wagner, who participated in the walk, said she felt a calling to help, especially during the holidays.

“I felt that this event was very important because Thanksgiving is the time for giving and by us having an open kitchen to any and everyone on Thanksgiving Day at the Selma Convention Center will just be the perfect thing to do,” she said. “This is an event that I would do again and again.”

The event was sponsored by New Shady Grove Church and proceeds from the event benefit The Walk for Hunger Fund.