Ryan Bender & Ama Coffie, pharmacists, at last year’s event.
Why I’m Volunteering to Give Required Vaccines to Kids on August 23, 2026
Join the Dane County Immunization Coalition (and me) for a free back-to-school clinic at the annual HairCutz4Kids Back to School Event at the Alliant Energy Center
Every August, somebody asks me how I’m spending the last weekends of summer. For several years now, the answer has included volunteering at a free back-to-school vaccine clinic, where I give shots and hear a lot about first-day plans.
This year’s clinic is Sunday, August 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Alliant Energy Center. If you have a kid or teen who still needs school vaccines, this is the easiest way I know to get them checked off before the first bell. And as an added bonus, the first 80 kids will get a free pair of shoes.
One Stop Before the First Day of School
The vaccine clinic is just one part of a larger event called Back 2 School Free Haircutz for Kids. JP Hair Designs hosts the event, which brings together local barbers to give hundreds of kids a free haircut just in time for the first day of school.
Organizations will be on hand to give out books, backpacks, and school supplies. The Dane County Immunization Coalition (DCIC), where I serve as vice chair, provides vaccines. The idea is to get everything done in one trip. Kids and teens get their required vaccines free of charge, students in grades K–12 can get a free haircut by appointment, and the first 80 kids vaccinated at the event take home a gift card for a new pair of shoes.
A parent or guardian needs to come along, and if you have your child’s immunization record, bring it.
Why I Keep Coming Back
As a parent and as someone who has spent most of my career building vaccine programs, I know firsthand how hard it can be to get kids vaccinated when you’re juggling work schedules, school calendars, and clinic hours. That’s what this event fixes. One free Sunday afternoon and it’s done. No kid should start the school year behind on vaccines because getting caught up was a hassle.
The Pharmacy Students Come, Too
Most years I don’t come alone. I’ve been a preceptor for the UW–Madison School of Pharmacy since 2008, and a community clinic is some of the best training there is. My students give shots and field questions from nervous parents, and they see what pharmacy looks like outside the counter: neighbors taking care of neighbors. I’d like to think that’s part of why they choose community pharmacy after graduation. It might also be the shoes.
Come Say Hi
You can schedule an appointment ahead of time (scheduling is available in English and Español), or just stop by between 10 and 4. If you’re not sure which vaccines your student needs, ask. This is my favorite subject.
Qual-i-tee opens on Madison’s west side this September, just in time for flu season. Until then, you’ll find me at the Alliant Energy Center on August 23rd.
