Annual Marshfield Area Pet Shelter Run/Walk held in Memory of Brittany Zimmermann
Paws For Brittany, a fun run and dog walk in memory of animal-lover Brittany Zimmermann, took place on May 13 at Wildwood Park in Marshfield. Funds raised from this event will help care for homeless animals found in the community Brittany grew up in and will help many animals that she adored.
“She absolutely loved animals. She had three cats,” said Brittany’s mom, Jean Zimmermann. “We’re so proud that everyone came out to help us raise money today.”
A Marshfield native, Brittany was attending UW-Madison when she was brutally attacked and murdered on April 2, 2008. The crime remains unsolved. Her parents, Kevin and Jean, take some comfort in caring for Brittany’s three beloved cats, Marvin, Felix and Boo.
On May 13, more than 210 people (plus their dogs) participated in the 4th Annual Paws For Brittany event. MAPS President Karen Rau, and Jean, spoke at the event, with Pastor Andrew Wilson, of Christ Lutheran Church in Marshfield, leading the group in prayer before the run/walk.
“We’re so honored and privileged to be a part of this with the Zimmermann family,” said Rau. “We don’t want to forget Brittany. We want to remember her. We want to honor her.”
Sporting purple event shirts, runners and walkers traversed the path around the upper pond, past buffalo, elk, wolves and other wildlife. This year’s event raised $9,000, which will assist with MAPS’ day-to-day operating costs.
“Thanks to all who came out,” said Rau. “Thanks to all of our sponsors who helped us get
this event underway, and our event coordinators that partake in this every year to make sure that we’re successful. We could not be more honored to be a part of this community event.”
Marshfield Area Pet Shelter is currently operating out of a temporary shelter on West 29th Street, in the former airport terminal. They also host open hours at their Adoption Center in Marshfield Mall. Volunteers and donations are always welcome.
Please visit www.PawsforBrittany.com for more information.
