Ladner's Reach Child and Youth Development Society has plans to stretch its reach across South Delta this year.
Reach, a non-profit charitable organization, has been supporting families with special needs children for over 50 years now.
"Our goal is to try to keep families united," said executive director Renie D'Aquila.
It does so with the help of more than 60 volunteers, who serve on two managing boards, one for overseeing programs and one for fundraising and events, as well as at its children's thrift store and through its numerous programs.
Work on Reach's new facility at Memorial Park began earlier this week as crews are getting set to demolish the Kin House. Currently based in East Ladner, the society intends to build a two-storey, 20,000-square-foot centre adjacent to the Ladner Pioneer Library.
Reach has raised $4 million of the $5 million price tag for the project and is hoping to meet its goal through upcoming events, such as the fourth annual Reach for the Stars gala on April 23 at the Coast Tsawwassen Inn.
"It's all of these people behind the scenes that strengthen the community," said D'Aquila. Other volunteers take on a more interactive approach by supporting the many programs offered by Reach, including therapy and preschool development. Its volunteer-run thrift store, FINDS, also hopes to double its staff and expand shop hours.
