The Outer Banks Association of Realtors® (OBAR) has made a $25,000 donation to support disaster relief and recovery efforts in Western North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. This donation will be split equally, with $12,500 going to the Western North Carolina Community Foundation and $12,500 directed to the NC REALTORS® Housing Foundation, ensuring essential support reaches the communities that need it most.

These funds will enable the Western North Carolina Community Foundation to continue meeting urgent needs by providing essential food, medical supplies, and support services to individuals and families affected. The NC REALTORS® Housing Foundation will put its portion toward a larger pool to develop long-term housing solutions, helping displaced residents find stability and rebuild their lives.

This contribution aligns with OBAR’s longstanding tradition of supporting local disaster relief efforts. Since the 1990s, OBAR has held annual fundraisers—currently, three each year—to sustain and grow designated funds at the Outer Banks Community Foundation for times of crisis. To make this donation possible, the OBAR Board of Directors chose to draw from its reserve fund, hoping to provide prompt and meaningful assistance to those impacted.

“On the Outer Banks, we have experienced firsthand the devastation that hurricanes can bring,” said OBAR President Richard Tolson. “Our hearts go out to all those affected, and we stand in solidarity with those facing the difficult path to recovery. This donation is one way our association can give back and extend the same kindness and support that our community has received in the past.”