Since 2008, Outer Banks Dare Challenge has worked to transform the lives of men and their families who have been affected by substance abuse. Now the organization is embarking on a new mission to expand its ability to reach more people.

The expansion project features a 10,000-square-foot multipurpose building with an industrial kitchen, dining room, conference room, office space, and four additional classrooms. Two dormitories will each house 16 individuals. This triples the number of people Outer Banks Dare Challenge can help.
 

“The expansion will provide us with the means to not only house 40 to 60 students, but also grow our work and community service program,” says Dustin Daniels, executive director.

The Women's Center is a 2.5-acre property on Roanoke Island with a fully functional farm. 

Dare Challenge operates a successful thrift store in Kill Devil Hills that helps offset the expenses of the organization and also provides a location where students can learn valuable interpersonal work skills in preparation for their re-entry into society. A work program gives students the opportunity to go out in the community three days a week to provide landscaping, lawn maintenance, painting, cleanup services, assistance with moving, and other small jobs.

“We are able to assist with various community service work and help other local nonprofits, churches, and organizations,” Dustin says. “Our students are in classes the rest of the week learning valuable skills through biblical principles to become productive members of society.”

In September, Outer Banks Dare Challenge held a grand opening for the new Women’s Center. Located on Roanoke Island in Wanchese, the Women’s Center is a peaceful place where individuals can heal from substance abuse. The 2.5-acre property features a main facility that accommodates six students. The fully functional farm provides opportunities for students to learn new skills. A three-season garden offers opportunities for students to grow and preserve fresh produce, herbs, and more that they can use to create and sell jams, teas, soaps, and salves to support the center.

Dare Challenge has developed a partnership with the College of the Albemarle (COA). After a three-month internship with Dare Challenge, successful graduates will be able to take free classes to be certified for a trade at COA.

Dustin adds, “Dare Challenge is an organization whose goal is to make freedom from addiction accessible for all people. Participating in all aspects of the program gives them pride and a sense of accomplishment. They leave here knowing they are much better off than when they came in.”

Ervin Bateman, Dare County commissioner, has been a strong supporter of Dare Challenge for years. He helped create a partnership between the County and the organization to provide a grant and create job opportunities for residents. “We need to always have a place for people to go when they need help. Outer Banks Dare Challenge has touched nearly everyone’s life in this area. They have a strong reputation for doing good things.”

“TowneBank is honored to support Outer Banks Dare Challenge in its building campaign with a multi-year gift,” says Taylor Sugg, TowneBank northeastern North Carolina president. “This expansion will help Dare Challenge offer more services and accommodations to people facing difficult challenges in life. We are grateful to be part of helping Outer Banks Dare Challenge achieve its mission.”

For more information, visit OuterBanksDareChallenge.org.