Murphy – Reach of Cherokee & Graham Counties celebrated its first gala since 2019 on Jan. 27 at The Ballroom downtown.
The theme was black and white. There was a silent auction, 50/50 drawing and an auto donation raffle.
Members of the board of directors shared client success stories and the impact that Reach has in the community. Marketing coordinator/advocate Matthew Crawford spoke about what donations go toward and how Reach can create sparks of hope with that money.
“It was a beautiful and inspiring evening full of fellowship,” Crawford said. “The world has change so much. But the change that has gotten greater is the community’s willingness to support and get involved.”
With February being Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, Reach wants to take the time to focus on and educate teenagers in our community.
Reach hopes to empower teens with education to stand up and speak out. Teen dating violence can be done in person or electronically with the explosion of social media and telecommunication. Social media is a hotbed of violent and abusive activity, especially for teens new to relationships and unsure how to handle their feelings most appropriately.
Reach encourages parents to talk with your teen and open a healthy line of communication to educate and support them. Statistics show 4,105 teens daily are victims of dating violence.
Crisis line: Call 828-837-8064.
Details: Visit reachofcherokeecounty.org.