REACH Beyond Domestic Violence Raises $475,000 at Annual Gala

On Saturday, October 26, 2019, REACH Beyond Domestic Violence (REACH) hosted their 16th Annual Reach for the Stars Gala at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel. More than 350 supporters, friends, neighbors, and colleagues who are committed to making a difference, using their voice for change, and reaching beyond domestic violence attended the event.

The evening featured a cocktail hour with a Silent Auction followed by dinner and an inspirational program hosted by emcee Robin Young from WBUR radio. The event highlighted programs and services provided by REACH. To continue with their Domestic Violence Awareness Month theme of “I Will Use My Voice for Change”, a survivor, Zoila shared her story in an emotional speech.

Zoila, is a member of REACH’s Latinas Know Your Rights (LKYR) group. The LKYR program builds capacity within the Waltham Latina community by training participants to become community activists, educate others, and break systemic barriers that immigrant female domestic violence survivors face in accessing their rights. Zoila said:

“Now you have in front of you the new Zoila! I became a leader in Latinas Know Your Rights. I have been invited to speak at the State House to educate legislators about domestic violence and keeping immigrant families together and safe. I shared my story with the Boston Globe, Boston Herald, CNN, Telumundo Univision, and others. But, most importantly I have become a role model for other survivors to show them we don’t have to live in fear because there is always help.”

Following Zoila’s presentation, a Live Auction of unique, one-of-a-kind experiences was conducted by the fabulous auctioneer, Tom Best, who entertained everyone and juggled several bidding wars. All this was followed by lots of dancing!

Proceeds from the Reach for the Stars Gala support the many programs and services provided by the Waltham based organization. Many companies and individuals stand with REACH Beyond Domestic Violence showing that they support survivors and are committed to finding solutions.

Event sponsors include: Charles River Laboratories, Vestmark, Inc., Commonwealth Financial Network, The Donahue Maley and Burns Team, High Tower, Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation, John Hancock Investments, Rockland Trust - Peoples Federal Foundation, Inc., SharkNinja, and Winthrop Wealth Management.

REACH (Refuge, Education, Advocacy and CHange) Beyond Domestic Violence is a growing organization committed to building healthy communities by ending domestic violence. What started in 1981 as an all-volunteer shelter and hotline has evolved into a multiservice agency serving 7,000 people a year in 27 communities north and west of Boston. REACH serves women, men, people of all races and ethnicities, survivors of all ages, and people who are LGBTQ. REACH is among the first domestic violence organizations in the state to have youth-focused prevention programming and we are often enlisted by other agencies to lead trainings for staff and new hires.

Domestic violence affects all of us – together we will reach beyond domestic violence. www.reachma.org