Re: When was the last time you saw "reached out" used properly?
I believe you meant to say: "When was the last time you saw "reached out" used literally rather than as a metaphor?" To which I would answer: "A long time in reported speech. People more often say 'reached over' where I come from". But in fiction? It is not rare.
That said, there is nothing improper in using "reach out" to mean "communicate with (in any manner you deem most proper)".