After months of anticipation, Selma resident Jewel Thornton is a week away from realizing her dream for a better Selma. 

The Selma Convention Center will be decked in pink Saturday, Aug. 9 for the Gala In Pink Steering Committee’s Gala in Pink event. Set for 7 p.m., the event was inspired by committee president Thornton’s dream to unify Selma, while supporting the American Cancer Society, an organization that has dedicated more than 100 years to battling cancer and supporting those affected by it.

The committee has been accepting donations to fund operational costs for the event since their first meeting in March.

“For every one ‘no’ I received, it was about six or seven doors that were opened for the event to actually occur,” Thornton said. “I’m just excited about how it has worked out. God is just amazing.”

Thornton’s vision was driven by her personal experience with cancer. Her oldest daughter, Traci Young was diagnosed with cancer in 2009. While taking Young for her treatments in New York City, Thornton learned just how common cancer is through conversations and research.

Thornton then decided to use her experience working on prom committees to create the Gala in Pink and fight a disease that has affected so many.

The charity ball will include plenty of entertainment, dining and dancing.

Downtown Selma’s boutique Allez-oup will present a fashion show. Impromptu Jazz, which features Selma High Band directory Brandon Williams, will perform.

Proceeds from the event will go to the American Cancer Society.

The group will also be accepting donations during the gala.

“I want people to come and enjoy themselves,” Thornton said.

No one is required to wear pink for the occasion since the center will be decked out in the bright color, often associated with breast cancer awareness.

Tickets are $25 per person and $160 per table of eight.

For more information, call Thornton at 875-1058.