Selma Chapter of Links Inc. is inviting the public to the Riverfront Walking Trail Saturday, Sept. 27 for a special walk-a-thon.

Not only will the local chapter host a 7 a.m. walk-a-thon along the walking trail to promote a healthy lifestyle among the community, but it’s doing it to also honor the late Dr. Geraldine Allen, a woman who dedicated years to her community.

Allen, who died in 2010, served as a Selma City councilwoman, Selma City School Board member, Selma Medical Center’s Intensive Care Unit director, Vaughn Regional Medical Center’s nursing education director, a Wallace Community College of Selma and the University of Alabama at Birmingham instructor, a long-time nurse and more.

“She is very well known in the Selma community for the work that she has done in health care, education and municipal government,” chapter president Charlotte Griffeth said. “We felt it was only fitting to honor such a renowned woman, who has made such a remarkable impression, not only in Selma, but in the state of Alabama and across the country. “

The city will join the event, unveiling a bronze marker meant to honor Allen.

The Links chose the 2014 event theme, “Selma Building a Healthy Legacy,” with both Allen and its health initiative in mind.

“It’s important for people to get out and exercise and do those things that will help us maintain our health, because Dallas County is one of the most obese counties in the state of Alabama,” Griffeth said. “It’s so important that we, as a service organization, continue to build that health legacy and leave a wonderful legacy as Dr. Allen has done.”