In 2005, Burlington resident Laura Kate Winterbottom was attacked downtown, raped and killed in a particularly brutal and shocking crime. Since then, her family and friends have honored her memory with a nonprofit that raises awareness about sexual violence, and raises funds to provide care and resources for survivors of violence.

The LKW Memorial Fund hosts an annual 5k walk/run aptly called "Laura's March." This year's event starts at 10 a.m. tomorrow, September 17, at Oakledge Park in Burlington. Registration is 9-9:30 a.m. Participants can aso register, or donate money, online.

The primary beneficiaries of Laura's March are Parallel Justice, a Burlington program that provides resources to underserved victims of violent crime; and to Vermont Works for Women's Dirt Divas program, which helps school-age girls build confidence, self-esteem, courage and leadership skills.

A number of businesses, including Seven Days, contribute to the success of Laura's March. Since 2005, the LKW Memorial Fund has donated $65,000 to a variety of Vermont nonprofits. March on.

Photo from Laura's March last year courtesy of LKW Memorial Fund.