Another Whale of a Donation Ocean Ridge Charities Association, Inc. (ORCA) was founded in 2010 when the Ocean Ridge Plantation homeowner’s association disbanded, leaving $14,000 in an account. It was determined that ORCA’s mission would be to identify charitable efforts making a difference in Brunswick County and support them through fundraising and volunteering. Since then, thanks to the hard work and generosity of the Ocean Ridge residents, ORCA has donated more than $1.3 million to dozens of local nonprofits.

Earlier this year, Judy Cunningham and Mary Perno, ORCA’s chief fundraisers, stopped by to deliver a $13,725 donation for BEMC’s utility assistance program, Warm Homes, Warm Hearts, and we asked how they were able to make such a huge, continual impact on so many organizations. “We have a small army of dedicated, motivated volunteers, we’re very organized, everyone is quite generous with their time and money, and we have a ton of fun with a wide variety of activities that raise money throughout the year,” said Judy.

“We have a Holiday Open House Tour, which is spectacular, as well as a Trivia Night, an Annual Arts & Crafts Fair, baked good sales at the monthly summer pool events, even knife sharpening. We really enjoy coming up with new ideas and pulling them off, because the feeling you get when you hand over a check is so amazing. We try to set a new record each time!”

“Around the holidays we have a Marketplace Raffle that is fueled by the donations of so many talented residents,” continued Mary. “We have three men who paint beautiful works of art, and none of them had painted before moving here! Another does woodworking and donates charcuterie boards. Judy’s gorgeous quilt brought in $1,900 last year! From designer pillows to gourmet cakes, people give freely of their talents, and open up their wallets, when it’s for a good cause. And we can’t forget the generous local businesses, especially in the Shallotte and Calabash area, that have stepped up as Corporate Sponsors.”

“Truly, it’s all about helping worthwhile causes like Habitat for Humanity, Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, Brunswick Family Assistance, Waves 4 K.I.D.S., Carousel Center, food banks, and so many more,” added Judy. “Yes, we work hard, but we enjoy the process and especially the results, and you know what? We’re making memories!”

Thank you, Judy and Mary, everyone at ORCA, and the generous people at Ocean Ridge Plantation. For more information visit orcharities.org.