Holiday Spirit on the Outer Banks

The Holiday Spirit is alive and well on the Outer Banks.

The Holidays are more than gifts wrapped under a tree; the genuine meaning behind our beloved winter holidays is a renewed appreciation for the truly important aspects of life…friends and family, health, a roof over your head and food on your table. Nowhere is this meaning more evident than the Outer Banks, specifically the Interfaith Community Outreach.

The Interfaith Community Outreach (ICO) is an interfaith organization of volunteers who are supported by more than 20 local faith communities and network partners. The (ICO) provides emergency gap services and referrals to people on the Outer Banks and surrounding areas who have no other place to turn for help.

ICO Services Include:

· Food

· Utilities

· Transportation

· Shelter

· Medical care

· Home rehabilitation

· Child care

· Community disaster recovery

Due to the sluggish economy this year, the ICO is stretched further than usual. The ICO is almost $25,000 over budget due to the difficult times many local residents are having. Volunteers and donations are greatly appreciated. For more information please visit the Interfaith Community Outreach’s website at: http://www.interfaithoutreach.com.

In an effort to be thankful for all the blessings we have and show our support for local residents who may be less fortunate, Seaside Vacations chose to forgo an end-of-the-year holiday party in lieu of a donation to the Interfaith Community Outreach. Instead of a fully catered party to celebrate the successes of 2008 and welcome in a great 2009, the employees of Seaside Vacations felt it would be more appropriate given the time of year and the current economic slowdown to help those who may be in need. A check was donated last week during an office pot-luck lunch.

xmas-2008-donation