Outer Banks Community Foundation Awards Over $70,000 in Community Enrichment Grants
The Outer Banks Community Foundation (OBCF) has awarded $71,992 in Community Enrichment Grants to 10 local nonprofits in its first grant cycle of the year, funding projects that support youth, preserve history and bring arts and culture to communities across the Outer Banks.
“Our Community Enrichment Grants are all about investing in the nonprofits that strengthen and serve our community every day,” said Nandy Stuart, OBCF Chief Operating Officer. “This cycle reflects our commitment to uplifting the organizations doing innovative and meaningful work right here at home.”
The Don and Catharine Bryan Cultural Series received funding to host Ghana’s Saakumu Dance Troupe for a weeklong residency in partnership with Dare Arts, Children & Youth Partnership, and Dare County Schools.
“This vibrant celebration of Ghanaian music and dance will enrich our schools, festivals, and community spaces, bringing cultural diversity and global perspectives to residents and students across Dare County,” said Bryan Cultural Series President Bob Muller.
The Secotan Alliance received a grant for In the Spirit of Wingina 2: Our Women… Our Words… Our Water, a two-day event in May highlighting indigenous history through lectures, panels, music, and poetry.
Newer nonprofits Hatteras Island Community Strings and Hatteras Island Futbol Club (HIFC) were awarded grants to expand youth music and soccer programs.
“This upcoming spring and summer season would not be possible without the support of OBCF,” said HIFC President Ian O’Neal.
Water’s Edge Village School in Corolla will use its grant to install essential computer network infrastructure in its new school building, opening this fall.
OBX Go Far received support to celebrate its 15th anniversary with a youth-focused event at the Pioneer Theater following their annual 5K race and fun run.
Grants to Pea Island Preservation Society, Inc., Outer Banks Lighthouse Society, and First Flight Society will fund educational programming and community events—ranging from historic storytelling to lighthouse education and aviation celebrations.
Finally, North Carolina Aquarium Society received funding for a special bilingual night at the aquarium this fall, featuring guided tours and animal encounters in English and Spanish.
Nonprofits interested in applying for funding are encouraged to explore the new Focus Grants, which provide up to $50,000 for initiatives addressing healthcare access, affordable housing, and child care. Applications are due April 25, 2025.
For more details about these grant awards and the Outer Banks Community Foundation’s grant program, visit obcf.org/grants or call 252-423-3003.
About the Outer Banks Community Foundation:
The Outer Banks Community Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to fostering philanthropy and supporting local causes. Through its charitable funds and grant programs, the Foundation strives to enrich the quality of life for residents of the Outer Banks.
