#United States #Outer Banks #sustainable tourism #Manteo #Volunteer OBX

Outer Banks Launches Volunteer OBX Portal

In an innovative step toward promoting sustainable tourism, the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau has introduced the Volunteer OBX portal, aimed at fostering connections between visitors and local residents through volunteer opportunities. This new online platform is set to roll out in 2026, facilitating community engagement in various non-profit organizations and local events across the Outer Banks region.

A Fresh Approach to Tourism

Lee Nettles, the Executive Director of the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau, emphasizes that tourism should not only flourish but also enhance the communities it touches. “We have fundamentally changed the way we look at tourism and are continually on the lookout for opportunities to harness its power for the benefit of our community,” he stated during the portal’s launch announcement.

The Volunteer OBX portal intends to empower communities in Dare County, North Carolina, equipping non-profit organizations and local governments with free tools designed for improved scheduling, management, and communication with volunteers. Moreover, it aims to simplify the volunteer selection process for individuals seeking to make a difference in the community based on their availability and interests.

Commitment to Community Stewardship

The launch of the Volunteer OBX portal is just one aspect of the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau's broader commitment to responsible tourism growth and community stewardship. This dedication is illustrated through the Outer Banks Long-Range Tourism Management Plan (LRTMP), a comprehensive ten-year strategy designed to leverage tourism positively. The plan aims to maintain a balance between the quality of life for residents and the experience for visitors while protecting the natural resources and rich history of the Outer Banks.

Milestones of the Past Year

In the past year, notable efforts included:

• - Expansion of Voluntourism: The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau expanded its voluntourism initiatives, rolling out a new video series focused on voluntourism in the Outer Banks, and launching a guide aimed at group travelers. The inaugural Outer Banks Volunteer Week was also celebrated in October, highlighting community service.
• - Partnerships with Nonprofits: Continuing its focus on community partnerships, the bureau has fostered collaborations with local nonprofits, marking another year of successful interaction with the Outer Banks Community Foundation. Events like the Nonprofit Mission Mixer and insightful workshops were held to promote connections among local nonprofit professionals. A new partnership with the Coastal Studies Institute allowed for a screening of the environmental documentary “The Cigarette Surfboard” and participated in educational lectures regarding the LRTMP.
• - Tourism Impact Grants: Recently, the Dare County Tourism Board approved grants totaling $1.79 million to support 12 local nonprofits. The grants aim to enhance programs and services necessitated by tourism impacts, funding initiatives like multi-use paths, improving beach access, and supporting sustainability projects at historical attractions. The funds are a testimony to ongoing financial support with a cumulative total of $21.33 million awarded to various local entities since 1993.

About the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

The Outer Banks Visitors Bureau serves as the official tourism authority for Dare County, encompassing notable towns including Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head, and Manteo. The Bureau is dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism while ensuring the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage of North Carolina’s beautiful barrier islands. For more information, visit outerbanks.org.

With the launch of the Volunteer OBX portal, the Outer Banks is setting a precedent in responsible tourism, showcasing how community involvement can enhance the visitor experience while giving back to local residents. As the initiative unfolds, it holds great promise for fostering a richly interconnected local community and a vibrant tourism sector.