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ATTLEBORO - For the past 30 years, New Hope Inc., the area's nonprofit domestic and sexual violence agency, has served the community, and the agency plans to celebrate the milestone in a big way.

In fact, the agency will launch its 30th anniversary year, which is themed "String of Pearls," with a Champagne and Wine Tasting event at the Attleboro Arts Museum, open to the public, at 7 p.m. Saturday.

The theme will carry through several of the agency's 30th anniversary events, including New Hope's 30th Anniversary "String of Pearls" Gala Celebration on Friday, March 20, at Lake Pearl Luciano's in Wrentham.

Tickets for the first event - the Champagne and Wine Tasting - are $30 and all proceeds will benefit the domestic and sexual violence programs and services provided by New Hope.

The "String of Pearls" theme will symbolize both the 30th anniversary gemstone and the emotional and physical journey that New Hope's domestic and sexual violence survivors make, while supporting the ongoing mission of the agency. "This Champagne and Wine Tasting will not only launch New Hope's 30th anniversary year, but even more importantly, will provide critically needed funding to continue our services and programs," said New Hope Executive Director Kimberly Thomas.

"With statistics of domestic violence and domestic homicides reaching record highs this past year and a 46 percent overall increase in services provided by New Hope in 2008, our programs are needed more than ever."

Guests at the event will have an opportunity to sample from about 40 different wines from two local vineyards, Newport Vineyards and Sakonnet Vineyards, as well as with wines from all around the world, including reds, whites, sparkling wines and ports. Seven different wine-tasting stations each will feature several wines, with a wine expert on hand to pour and describe the nuances of each wine.

In addition, attendees will be able to sample hors d'oeuvres and desserts, listen to music and view the museum's Annual Members Show, currently on display and featuring artwork created by museum members in a variety of art mediums as well as sculptures and metal works.

The festivities also will include several interactive audience activities followed by an auction, conducted by auctioneer Richard Conti, with auction prizes including tickets to the Boston Wine Expo, fine wines, wine accessories, wine and cheese baskets, jewelry, theater tickets, movie passes, restaurant gift certificates and more.

Janette Sears can be reached by phone or fax at 508-222-0993 or by e-mail at janette.boulay@gmail.com.