Reach for the Stars: Shining Lights Gala raised just over $160,000 for children with special needs.
The funding will help Reach Child and Youth Development Society expand programs and shorten waitlists as well as upgrade North Delta facilities. In fact, 17 families were removed from the Reach counselling program waitlist during the Fund-A-Need at the June 1 gala when over $20,000 was raised in seven minutes after presentations from Yvonne McKenna and Christine Sutherland.
Delta MP Carla Qualtrough spoke at the event and highlighted the difference that Reach makes to families and the importance of inclusion. Steve Darling entertained the crowd once again as MC and worked with live auctioneer Ian Paton, the MLA for Delta South, to raise bids on a variety of high quality items.
Other highlights of the evening included Jason Beddis’s voice and piano performance and a Greek dance by young Haris Tsaoussis.
Business support included major donor Realco Properties, presenting sponsors Global Container Terminals and Ocean Trailer, and platinum sponsors Port of Vancouver, CAPTIN Toyota and the Sundowner Pub.
The event was attended by 300 guests and is supported by 51 volunteers, comprised of year-long event volunteers as well as night-of helpers.
The community involvement for the annual Reach for the Stars gala by sponsors, donors and guests makes the special evening possible.
“The combination of warm hearts, positive energy and generosity of spirit that filled the ballroom was remarkable,” said Kristin Bibbs, Reach development manager and event organizer. “It was an amazing evening and we are extremely grateful to everyone who contributed in support of our children and families.”
