Contact 50th Anniversary Gala
TOMS RIVER N.J. – April 6, 2026 – PRLog On Saturday, March 28th, CONTACT Ocean & Monmouth Counties celebrated its 50th anniversary with a gala at Avenue Long Branch. Community members, supporters, and partners gathered to celebrate the event.
This evening is themed “A Light Out of the Darkness,” The Gala was both a celebration and an appeal to take action in the coming years. The Gala gathered the entire community, including all those who helped CONTACT continue its mission to provide free and confidential assistance 24 hours a days, 365days a year.
Kim Santora, Executive Director of CONTACT opened the night with an overview and reflection on the history and impact of the organization. She highlighted the humble beginnings that began in 1975 when the organisation had a single telephone line with the simple yet powerful promise that no one would have to face the darkest times alone. She stressed the importance of connecting with others, stating that technology has changed but the need to listen compassionately remains the same.
“Calls to crisis lines have increased by over 300% in recent years,” Santora emphasized the increasing demand for mental support as she highlighted.
“CONTACT continues to play a critical role in offering hope, reassurance, and a steady voice during life’s most difficult moments.” She shared her vision for the future, which included expanding volunteer training and community awareness, as well as increasing access to help.
The evening’s highlight was the honoring of those individuals and groups whose commitment has had a long-lasting impact on the mission of CONTACT. Open Arms Extended Arts of NJ received an Outstanding Supporter Award. Phyllis Cox LCSW was awarded the Outstanding Volunteer award. Bright Harbor Healthcare also was acknowledged as a Outstanding Partner.
Cox’s acceptance speech included a personal account of how her experience as a volunteer with CONTACT shaped her future. Inspiring by the experience she had on the phone, Cox decided to go back to school to pursue a social work career at a period when it was a much less popular field. Her story is a testimony to the power of service for both those who are calling and those who respond.
A celebration evening was held at the Gala, which included a dinner with a nine-piece band and dancing.
Fundraising efforts were also made to help support CONTACT’s programs and services. It was also a great reminder that the entire community is responsible for maintaining this safety net.
“For 50 years, CONTACT has been a voice in the night for so many,” Santora shared. “And with the support of this community, we will continue to be here—listening, caring, and reminding every caller that they are not alone.”
The organization is inviting the community to be a part of its future as CONTACT moves forward. CONTACT’s 39th Annual Spring Luncheon & Gift Auction will be held on the 16th of May at Spring Lake Manor, Spring Lake NJ. This exciting event is only open to registered guests.
We are always available to hear you if you want to speak. To reach an experienced, caring volunteer, call 732-240-6100.
Contact CONTACT Ocean & Monmouth Counties
CONTACT Ocean & Monmouth Counties, a charitable non-profit organization, provides telephone listeners trained to respond 24 hours a day to the needs of people. The volunteer-based organisation offers confidential crisis intervention and information about available resources.
It also refers people to local services. To learn more, visit https://ContactOceanMonmouth.org.