Tara's Garden 2026: Immortal Legacy is this year's memorial fundraiser in honor of Tara Rose Willenborg's birthday.

Tara should be turning 31 on March 10 but was killed in 2013, 8 days before turning 18. Funds raised will be split among three charities meaningful to Tara and the legacy she left.

Tara was a fierce lover and defender of animals. She became a vegetarian and animal rescue volunteer at a young age, and donations to Southern Indiana Animal Rescue represent her commitment.

With an independent mind and determined character, Tara earned her GED earlier than her classmates graduated. Given the timing of her death, she wouldn't have finished high school otherwise. Contributions to the Todd and Tara Willenborg Scholarship Fund, which covers GED testing fees for the area's youngest students, honor that accomplishment.

Tara attended and was confirmed at St. Luke's United Church of Christ. The church carried and sheltered her family as they dealt with the devastating and public loss of Tara and hosts a physical garden in her memory. Giving to St. Luke's acknowledges this service and ensures it's available to others.

Family, friends and community members will gather for an in-person event at the church on March 7 from 4pm to 7pm. There will be birthday cake, entertainment, fellowship, a silent auction and other opportunities to give. Everyone is invited to participate there then and via this online option.

All beneficiaries are charities, and donations are tax deductible.

If you'd prefer to donate an auction item or sponsor the event, please contact Sarah Young with SoulShine Events at [phone redacted].

Thank you for supporting this effort and helping us celebrate Tara's Immortal Legacy.