Local Realtor Establishes Coastal Campership Fund

The Outer Banks Community Foundation is pleased to announce that programs that offer overnight camping experiences will be afforded need-based support for local youth to attend through the newly established Coastal Campership Fund. Gray Berryman, the fund’s establisher, is a real estate broker with Carolina Designs Realty in Duck; he also is heavily involved with the local scouting program. After seeing both the lasting benefits and continuing need for providing local youth opportunities to attend scout camps and similar programs, Berryman established the new fund so that more Outer Banks children have access to quality outdoor leadership experiences.

“Camping programs are such an important resource for Outer Banks families,” said Community Foundation President and CEO Chris Sawin. “They provide educational and leadership opportunities for young people and a safe environment for children of hard-working families. I’m so happy to see this new fund established to provide camperships now and for generations to come.”

The new fund’s principal is invested, so that grants will be awarded to benefit the community for generations to come. Endowment funds have been created over the years by individuals, families, businesses, nonprofits, civic groups, and government agencies for causes they are passionate about. Funds memorialize loved ones, and some direct a variety of grants each year, support a favorite issue or charity, award scholarships, and more.

“I am excited because this fund will help connect and share several strong passions in my life with others,” said Berryman.  “My camping, scouting, and real estate roots run deep; this new fund allows us to help more local youth attend formal camp programs. Please call me if I can offer advice on scouts, camping spots, or Outer Banks real estate!” said Gray.

The Outer Banks Community Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit charitable organization that inspires philanthropy and connects people who care with causes that matter. The Community Foundation manages more than 200 charitable funds for individuals and agencies, awards grants to nonprofits, administers more than 60 scholarship programs, and provides tailored services to help donors pursue their charitable interests. Since its inception in 1982, the Community Foundation has awarded more than $13 million in grants and scholarships to local nonprofits and students.