Corolla, North Carolina: Families Make Lasting Memories with Our EPIC Project
This August, a deserving family from Gambrills, Maryland, was awarded an extraordinary family vacation on the stunning Outer Banks, all thanks to the wonderful work of Our EPIC Project. Dianne Young and her family enjoyed a week filled with adventure, joy, and relaxation from August 10-17, 2024, in Corolla. The vacation was a part of the organization’s mission to emit positive impact collectively, offering unforgettable experiences to families in need.
Our EPIC Project, which partners closely with local businesses, is focused on uplifting the beach communities served by the Outer Banks Boil Company. A highlight of their charitable work is the creation of the Our EPIC Fund, managed by the Outer Banks Community Foundation (OBCF). Each year, this fund plays a crucial role in selecting a family to receive a week-long vacation retreat that includes both entertainment and relaxation.
A Warm Welcome for the Young Family
For Dianne Young, who has been dealing with multiple sclerosis, this vacation was a much-needed escape. “We are so honored to provide this opportunity to Dianne and her family,” said Denise Khouri, the president of Our EPIC Project. When they first connected with Dianne, it was clear that the family could really benefit from an EPIC summer getaway. The warmth of Corolla proved to be the perfect setting.
The Young family was thrilled upon arriving at their luxurious five-bedroom rental, which featured a private pool and a hot tub! The combination of exquisite accommodations and the beautiful Outer Banks scenery made for an unforgettable experience. Every day brought new opportunities for fun—whether it was embarking on a wild horse tour, playing a round of mini-golf, or indulging in a rejuvenating spa day. Dianne’s grandson totally summed it up when he exclaimed, “This is the best thing ever!”
Creating Lasting Memories
As the vacation week progressed, Dianne shared her heartfelt gratitude saying, “I sure needed this vacation. I was hurting badly, but everything, especially the spa day, helped me so much.” It’s exactly this kind of support that EPIC aims to provide—helping families relax, heal, and make precious memories together. When it came time to say their goodbyes, the smiles on the Young family’s faces were a testament to the success of the project.
Supporting Mental Health in the Community
Our EPIC Project is more than just vacations. The organization also prioritizes mental health initiatives and is gearing up for an Adult Mental Health First Aid Training Program, scheduled for October 10, 2024, in Corolla. This training aims to equip participants with essential skills to recognize and address mental health challenges within the community, reinforcing EPIC’s commitment to overall well-being.
As Nandy Stuart, the chief operating officer of OBCF, expressed, “Although each fund within OBCF has its unique name, history, and purpose, they all strive to improve lives and enrich our local community.” This ensures that families not only enjoy vacations but also have access to vital mental health support.
Join the Movement of Giving
If you feel inspired by the work that Our EPIC Project and the Outer Banks Community Foundation are doing, there are many ways to contribute. Creating a donor-advised fund is one fantastic option that allows individuals to make a lasting impact in the community. Getting involved in philanthropy has never been easier, and anyone interested can start their journey by reaching out to the community foundation.
As the sun sets over the Outer Banks, it’s evident that organizations like Our EPIC Project are creating ripples of hope and joy, making a real difference in the lives of families. With every vacation granted and every mental health initiative offered, they continue to uplift the community one family at a time.
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
