Reach Child and Youth Development Foundation has announced the second annual Reach for the Stars fundraising gala raised about $60,000.
Proceeds from the March 1 event at the Harris Barn in Ladner will go toward Reach's Building for Children Together $4 million capital campaign to build a new centre in Ladner for children and youth with special needs.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of two young South Delta men with special needs - and remarkable stories.
In a deeply moving video produced by Delta Cable, Josh Somers and his mother Shelley discussed the many challenges Josh has risen above since his birth, followed by an update from Josh on stage.
Sheelagh Forsythe told the audience about her amazing son, Marshall, who lives with disabilities, including visual.
Both families recounted the many services their sons received from Reach over the years.
Then, Josh, Marshall and their bandmates in Midnight Overture took the stage to entertain the audience with a set of blistering country rock tunes. The audience danced, clapped and gave the band a standing ovation, demanding an encore.
Other highlights included the singing of O Canada by Kurtis Reid, who has Down syndrome, a moving song and drum presentation by Tsawwassen First Nation Chief Bryce Williams, square dancing by the Delta Sundancers, welcome music from bluegrass band Tishomingo and an eclectic live auction featuring Delta councillor Ian Paton.
The new Reach centre will be in the heart of Ladner, replacing the current Kin House.
The Reach Foundation has raised more than $1.3 million to date.
