Reach Child and Youth Development Society’s ‘Wishes and Wonder’ Gala on June 1, provided an evening of magic and whimsy at Tsawwassen Springs and a fundraising total of $145,305.
“On the surface it may look like a gala is just a night of fun, but the funds raised ensure children relying on programs and equipment from Reach are given the life changing services, equipment and opportunities they deserve,” said Reach events coordinator Tamara Veitch in a news release. “We are so grateful for everyone who made it possible.” Volunteers worked for months before the event planning and gathering donations for the auctions. In addition, community and staff volunteers come on board on the evening of the event to make it possible.
In all, 250 guests attended the evening, including MP Carla Qualtrough, Delta South MLA Ian Paton and Delta Mayor George Harvie.
Tsawwassen First Nation Executive Coun. Taylor Baker began the evening with a heartfelt welcome, while parents Daniel Cameron and Amy Bonner each were present to introduce the first airing of their respective family videos that genuinely outlined the journeys that result from a child receiving a developmental needs diagnosis.
Reach family daughter and father act Tiana Schellenberg-Hamilton and Chris Hamilton performed two songs and received a standing ovation.
The Alice in Wonderland themed evening also boasted a performance by Delta Youth Theatre actors who arrived in costume to pose with guests, volunteering their time.
Gala guests also enjoyed Paton as the event auctioneer, and emcee Steve Darling, who injected a high dose of energy and humour to their evening.
Visit www.reachchild.org to learn more and see the gala photo album.
