The Family Crisis Center of the Big Bend will host its annual Zuzu Verk Memorial Walk and Vigil on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, to honor victims and survivors of domestic violence and raise awareness during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Community members are invited to gather at 6 p.m. at the Sul Ross State University Library Circle. The group will begin a walk at 6:30 p.m. down Sul Ross Avenue to the Brewster County Courthouse, where a presentation will be held to honor victims and support those rebuilding their lives after abuse.
The event is named in memory of Zuzu Verk, a Sul Ross State University student whose 2016 disappearance and death brought national attention to the issue of intimate partner violence. Each year, the memorial walk brings together students, families, and community leaders to stand against domestic violence and to remember those who have been lost.
The Family Crisis Center of the Big Bend, which serves Brewster, Jeff Davis, Presidio, and Terrell counties, provides crisis intervention, emergency shelter, counseling, and advocacy for victims of domestic and sexual violence. The organization’s 24-hour hotline — 1-800-834-0654 — is available for anyone in need of assistance or support.
“Every October, we come together to remember victims, honor survivors, and remind our community that help is available and healing is possible,” organizers said.
The public is encouraged to participate in the walk, wear purple to show support, and help raise awareness for prevention and early intervention programs across the Big Bend region.
