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The concept of giving without seeking recognition is an ancient ideal, echoed in the Bible and by philosophers like Maimonides, who stated, “The highest form of charity is giving without anyone knowing.” On the Outer Banks, the Love in Action fund exemplifies this value. Established by anonymous donors and managed by the Outer Banks Community Foundation, the fund supports Liberty Christian Fellowship in Kill Devil Hills (KDH). Instead of funding the church’s operations, the donors structured the fund so that the church distributes grants each year to local nonprofits that align with its values.

Pastor Scott Hobbs, who has led Liberty Christian for 12 years, emphasizes the importance of giving and serving others, finding joy in generosity. “Liberty has always been a community church – a place where all the hurting and broken folks can come to be ministered to,” he says. “Being able to give and be generous and meet the needs of people means everything. That’s where joy is found. It shapes your life, frames your perspective, keeps you from being self-centered. It’s an honor to be entrusted.” He adds with a smile, “And it’s just stinkin’ fun!”

Each fall, the church’s elders, ranging in age from 37 to 86, meet to decide on grant distributions. Decisions are made unanimously, with no ranks among the elders. Pastor Hobbs says, “Most meetings last 3 to 4 hours. Because everyone’s in agreement on the core thing when they first sit down with each other – finding the Lord’s heart and loving on folks – no one digs their heels in either way.”

The full Outer Banks Community Foundation story by Brian Tress about the Love in Action Fund can be found online at obcf.org/love-in-action-fund/.

Chris Sawin, president and CEO of the foundation, explains that this setup encourages the church to think beyond its own walls: “A charitable fund is typically restricted to a specific purpose, like the renovation of a chapel. In this case, the donors wanted to encourage the church to think about how they could support their wider community.”

Past recipients of the Love in Action grants include Dare Challenge Women’s Center, WaterLife Pregnancy Care Center and Cross Roads OBX. These grants have led to tangible outcomes, like employing a staff member at Cross Roads to transport individuals to rehab during critical windows. As Hobbs reflects, “The legacy of this fund has changed lives.”

At the Outer Banks Community Foundation, there are countless ways to get involved in philanthropy, and one of the simplest and most effective is by creating a donor-advised fund. To learn more about the Community Foundation, go to OBCF.org.

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