Outer Banks Non-Profit Community Updates

December 2023

The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau is connecting visitors with our local non-profit community. By making visitors more aware of, and connected to, the causes of the Outer Banks, we can encourage thoughtful visitation while also providing non-profit organizations with more resources. We look forward to sharing news and updates related to the initiative and welcome any thoughts you may have about how our community partnerships can continue to grow and flourish.

2023 State of Dare County Tourism Report Released

The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau recently released the 2023 State of Dare County Tourism Annual Report. In addition to presenting a breakdown of tourism-related economic impact statistics in the county during the past fiscal year, the report dives into marketing and public relations efforts, annual grant awards, community partnerships, Long-Range Tourism Management Plan efforts and other significant initiatives underway at the Bureau.

Explore the 2023 State of Dare County Tourism Report

Long-Range Tourism Management Plan Special Committee Announced

At its November meeting, the Dare County Tourism Board reviewed recommendations for appointment to the Outer Banks Long-Range Tourism Management Plan (LRTMP) Special Committee/Task Force and unanimously approved the selection of 22 community members to this group. The intent of this committee is to evaluate the strategic goals outlined in the LRTMP, make recommendations to the Dare County Tourism Board for action and further implement adopted recommendations.

View the Press Release

Outer Banks Non-Profits and Towns Receive $1.5 Million in Tourism Impact Grants

On November 6, the Dare County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the distribution of more than $1.58 million in Tourism Impact Grants to local non-profits and several governmental entities to support programs and services needed due to the impact of tourism. Over time, the Dare County Tourism Board has now awarded more than 700 total grants to over 150 Dare County non-profits and municipalities, reflecting more than $22 million in funding for projects and services that provide a tangible and sustained benefit for the Outer Banks community.

View the Press Release

Blog: Ways to Get Involved in the Community During Your OBX Vacation

Guest blogger Megan Nichols from NC Eat and Play explores ways that visitors can enjoy the breathtaking sights and sounds of the Outer Banks, while also being more intentional about destination stewardship, leaving our area in better shape than when they arrived.

"Whether it’s through volunteering your time, donating funds or simply sharing about their efforts, your support of these local non-profit organizations is extremely helpful and appreciated."

View the Blog Post

QC Magazine // Worth Protecting: Voluntourism and the Preservation of a Valuable Coastline - The Outer Banks

The Summer 2023 issue of QC Exclusive Magazine took a deeper dive into the sustainability and stewardship stories of our parks, community and local non-profit organizations.

"As one of the most beloved vacation destinations, the Outer Banks is a near perfect coastline. It has rolling sand dunes, diverse wildlife, a rich history, uncrowded beaches and abundant activities. But with all that beauty and soul comes a lot of responsibility."

View the Article

Social Impact: Giving Tuesday - Voluntourism

A recent Giving Tuesday post on the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau Facebook page spotlights how visitors can come away with a deeper appreciation for the community and a greater sense of responsibility by getting involved with local non-profits while on vacation. If your organization or event has volunteer opportunities to share and your profile needs to be created or updated to reflect this, please contact Allison Wyant at wyant@outerbanks.org.

Explore Volunteer Opportunities