CENTENNIAL — Four jurors from the Aurora theater shooting trial have teamed up with victims’ families to raise $200,000 for a memorial garden.
The four women, who asked to be identified only by their first names, have partnered with the 7/20 Memorial Foundation to raise the money in less than a month. All of the funds raised will be given to victims’ families and survivors, who will then use the money to purchase art and other features for the memorial.
Through tears and smiles, the jurors said Thursday the in the attack. But it also will serve as a place of healing and peace for survivors, family members and anyone in the community affected by the shooting.
Seventy other people were injured during the attack July 20, 2012. The gunman was in August, after a months-long trial this summer.
The strong community of victims inspired the four jurors to begin for the memorial garden.
“It was something to look forward to,” said Jessica, one of the jurors. “It was something that was positive and a way for us to support the families.”
The group has organized two events, including a fundraiser at America’s Bar & Grill in Aurora. The restaurant will donate 20 percent of all profits made during the Ultimate Fighting Championship matchup between Ronda Rousey and Holly Holm on Nov. 14.
Also, all Which Wich sandwich shops in Denver and Fort Collins will donate 15 percent of all profits made Nov. 21 to the memorial fund.
The city of Aurora has donated the land for the garden — at East Alameda Parkway and Chambers Road — and will provide all the plants and maintenance for the garden.
