REACH for the Stars Auction Gala Held on October 27, 2011

On October 27, 2011 REACH celebrated our 30th year anniversary and honored 
Audrey and James C. Foster, Christine and David Konys, and Carolyn and Stephen McCandless.

Reach for the Stars is an annual fundraising and awareness event presented by REACH. Proceeds benefit REACH’s vital programs and services for survivors affected by domestic violence. The Gala showcase ceramic plates designed by local and national celebrities, artists, and community leaders. Past and current plate artists include Tom Brady, Gisele Bündchen, Bruce Willis, David “Big Papi” Ortiz, Michelle Pfeiffer, Ellen DeGeneres, Lois Lowry, and Martha Stewart. The live auction features exciting sports and travel packages, and unique experiences. This year VIP guests enjoyed an early reception including cocktails and a tour of our new location at the WGBH studios.

About our Honorees
Audrey and James C. Foster
As co-chairs for the first Reach for the Stars, Board member Audrey and Jim introduced REACH to dozens of artists who have designed plates to auction off at the event.  Following a domestic violence homicide of a Charles River Laboratories employee, as CEO Jim partnered with REACH to talk with his staff about the warning signs and how to support employees.  The Fosters continue to talk about REACH and the work we do, to raise awareness and needed funds for REACH.

Christine and David Konys
Chris Konys has been REACH’s Board President since 2005.  For five years, she and her husband David served as Reach for the Stars Co-Chairs.  As involved and supportive members of the Capital Campaign Committee, Chris and David helped us turn a dream into reality, when we opened our beautiful eight-bedroom shelter in 2010.

Carolyn and Stephen McCandless
Steve and Carolyn have a deep and personal commitment to ending domestic violence. In 1992, Steve’s sister Betsy was murdered by her ex-husband.  Betsy faced many challenges with the legal system and had found support at REACH before she was killed.  Steve and Carolyn have maintained a connection to this agency and Steve is a dedicated domestic violence prevention volunteer in his home city of New York.