Eleven Nonprofits Awarded Community Enrichment Grants

To support a diverse range of initiatives, the Outer Banks Community Foundation awarded $54,000 in Community Enrichment Grants to 11 local nonprofits this quarter.

“As stewards of our community’s future, the Outer Banks Community Foundation is honored to support the incredible work of local nonprofits,” said Outer Banks Community Foundation Chief Operating Officer Nandy Stuart. “From expanding educational opportunities and fostering the arts to renovating cherished spaces and uplifting our Veterans, these grants reflect our commitment to supporting every facet of our vibrant community.”

The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce received a grant to provide eligible nonprofits with scholarships to participate in the Leadership OBX Program.

To prepare for its 50th anniversary in 2025, Dare Arts was awarded a grant to help elevate and amplify its longstanding programs and events and curate new exhibits and experiences for next year.

“Spanning all forms of art, our 2025 programming includes live music, dance and theater performances, writing and painting workshops, and gallery tours from Duck to Hatteras Village,” said Dare Arts Executive Director Jessica Sands. “Thanks to the incredible support from the Outer Banks Community Foundation, there is something for everyone on our robust calendar of events next year to honor the past, present, and future of Dare Arts and to celebrate all of the art and artists on the Outer Banks!”

The First Colony Foundation received a grant for a feasibility study by Beacon Architects to build a complete interior of a room from an Elizabethan manor house at the Elizabethan Gardens.

The Friends of the Mountain-to-Sea Trail (MST) were awarded a grant to install additional signage at Jockey’s Ridge State Park to share history about the MST and its connection to the Outer Banks.

“Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail is thrilled to be a part of the Outer Banks community, with the eastern terminus of the statewide trail nestled in the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park,” said Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail Executive Director Brent Laurenz. “We’re grateful for the support shown by the Outer Banks Community Foundation. With this grant, we’ll be able to capitalize on the momentum we’ve established by installing the MST terminus marker, which has already become an iconic location for residents, hikers, and visitors alike.”

The League of Women Voters of Dare County received a grant to support their Make Your Vote Count Rally & Resource Fair, which is a non-partisan public voter information event that will showcase local and statewide speakers.

“Please join the League of Women Voters of Dare County for our Make Your Vote Count Rally & Resource Fair on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Dowdy Park in Nags Head,” said League of Women Voters of Dare County’s Voter Registration Director Tianna Stathis. “The purpose of this event is to share resources and information to empower voters to be informed at the ballot box. With the support from a generous grant from the Outer Banks Community Foundation, this event is sure to be a day to remember with live music and delicious food. We are looking forward to seeing you there!”

MANE & TAILL Therapeutic Horsemanship Academy received a grant to bring animal-assisted therapy to first responders and to public school students.

The Marine Corps League Outer Banks Detachment was awarded a grant for their Marine in Need Program, which serves local Veterans by granting funds for direct help with rent, utilities, and expenses that are needed due to medical emergencies, and other family needs.

To keep its 40-year-old playground safe and up-to-date, Mount Olivet United Methodist Church received a grant to renovate and upgrade its playground equipment that serves its early childhood development program, the church, and the community.

A grant to the Outer Banks Dare Challenge to support their Women’s Center Gardens will help them grow produce to sell, which will help make their nonprofit organization financially self-sustainable and instill new skills in their students.

The Outer Banks Forum for the Lively Arts received a grant to host EarthBeat!, a journey of music and dance from around the world, on the Outer Banks for their upcoming 24/25 season. This event will allow the community to experience rhythms, sounds, and colors from around the world.

Wind Sports for Wounded Warriors OBX (WS4WW) was awarded a grant to continue its mission of serving and empowering wounded military service personnel through wind sport education by providing emotional support and active camaraderie.

“When I first got involved with WS4WW seven years ago it was a major positive influence on my personal journey of combat recovery,” said President of Wind Sports for Wounded Warriors OBX Eric Endries. “The Community Foundation grant will provide an incredible opportunity to establish a WS4WW OBX Chapter in the community. It will also help me do what I wish we could do for every combat Veteran- create a space for personal growth, provide positive experiences, create community, and impart purpose for ‘today’ and into ‘tomorrow’.”

Community Enrichment Grants are awarded four times a year. The next application deadline is Friday, October 25. Nonprofits must submit an online application in order to be considered for a Community Enrichment Grant.

For more information about Community Enrichment Grants, please click here.

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.