For the Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD — The annual Paws for Brittany Fun Run/Dog Walk fundraiser will return on May 7.

Paws for Brittany is a fun run and dog walk in memory of Brittany Zimmermann.

The walk/run starts and finishes in Wildwood Park in Marshfield. Funds raised benefit day-to-day operations at Marshfield Area Pet Shelter.

“Marshfield native Brittany Zimmermann was attending UW-Madison when she was attacked and murdered on April 2, 2008. Twelve years after the crime, an arrest was made on March 20, 2020 by Madison Police,” a MAPS release stated.

“Her parents, Kevin and Jean Zimmermann, find comfort in knowing they are helping fulfill Brittany’s passion for animals.”

“We have chosen MAPS to keep Brittany’s memory alive because animals were such a huge part of her life,” said Jean. “She supported many shelters herself, so it made perfect sense for us to continue this.”

“As this event approaches every year, we are reminded of the tragic loss to our community and the Zimmermann family,” said MAPS Executive Director Karen Rau. “We hope this event and the gathering of so many caring individuals can bring joy to the family.”

Registration at Wildwood Park begins at 8 a.m. on May 7, and the event starts at 9 a.m.

“We are encouraging people to come out to support, first and foremost, MAPS, as we need this shelter to help all the animals who are abandoned and need care,” added Jean. “Secondly, to remember a girl who had a passion for animals and was taken from us far too soon.”

Visit www.pawsforbrittany.com for more information and online registration.