ATTLEBORO - There has been a "staggering" increase in domestic violence in the 54 Massachusetts cities and towns served by New Hope over the past two years, says Kimberly Thomas, the agency's executive director.

The remark came during last week's New Hope's annual meeting at Highland Country Club in Attleboro.

New Hope aids women and families in need, including domestic violence.

Program Director Kevin Galipeau said those served by the agency increased 46 percent this year.

Also during the meeting, newly appointed board officers were introduced, including: President, Carolann McCarron of Platinum Realty; vice president, Jack Lank of the Attleboro Area Chamber of Commerce; treasurer, Rich Terry of Bristol County Savings Bank; and secretary, Lisa Nelson, who manages U.S. Rep. James McGovern's Attleboro office. New board members include Michael Carroll of AllCom Credit Union, Tom Dion of the Attleboro Police Department and Attleboro City Councilor Shannon Heagney.

Gourmet GuysNew Hope also is gearing up for the agency's signature fundraiser, Gourmet Guys.

The 19th annual event featuring men from the community cooking dinner will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21 at the Attleboro Elks, 887 South Main St. (Route 152).

New Hope is looking for men who want to serve as Gourmet Guys by preparing their specialty dishes for the event, and also for donors who want to contribute a raffle item for the event.

In addition, sponsorships are needed at the levels of event sponsor, major sponsor, materials sponsor and table sponsor. Tickets for the event are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors and children, 12 and under, and will be sold in advance only. Doors will open for the event at 6:30 p.m. and dinner will be served, beginning at 7 p.m.

For more information, call Amanda Nelson at 508-226-4015 or send her an e-mail at anelson@new-hope.org.

New Hope offices can be reached at 508-226-4015. The hotline for domestic violence and sexual assault is 1-800-323-HOPE.