Newtown resident Lindsey Carley, the executive director of REACH Newtown, believes everyone is hardwired for social and emotional connections. Research shows that healthy relationships are vital for a child's growth and development, and REACH is dedicated to helping facilitate those relationships.commitchange.com/ct/newtown/reach-newtown/events/2nd-annual-reach-car-show. The event will feature music, a 50/50 raffle, food, drink, and ice cream.sethdoug@aol.com, 203-268-2303, or 203-520-1457reachnewtown.org.

"Whether it is our one-to-one mentorship program, after-school tutoring academy, weekend outdoor expeditions, or annual summer camp, REACH's goal remains the same: building relationships that change lives," she said.

Through these healthy relationships, REACH seeks to promote compassion, empathy, integrity, and social accountability among its students, while preventing any child from feeling alone, forgotten, undervalued, bullied, or hopeless.

"We want to ensure that every child feels connected to their peers and the larger community," Ms Carley said. "All of our programs are focused on accomplishing this goal. Regardless if our students are feeling socially isolated, dealing with the effects of trauma, or struggling with developmental/emotional issues, we strongly believe that healthy relationships are key to addressing these challenges."

A recent e-mail from one of the REACH program parents highlights the point. The parent states, "[My son] seems happier and has more self-confidence. He seems less anxious and afraid, takes more chances exploring new things... I have seen such a change in [him] this year and I know it is a result of his involvement in REACH."

To help raise funds and awareness of the organization, a benefit car show is being held Sunday, September 11, at Fairfield Hills. According to organizers:

*All cars invited (no cut-off), $10;

*First 125 cars will receive goody bag, dash plaque and a car show CD;

*More than 50 trophies will be awarded; and

*Spectators admission is free (donations accepted).

Preregistration for cars is available at

For more information contact Seth Carley at

REACH is a referral-based organization, with strong connections to Newtown's schools. To learn more about REACH's impact in the community and the research behind its model, visit

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