Frying Pan Tower launches raffle to fund coastal rescue buoys
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Frying Pan Tower has launched its 2026 “Save A Life” Raffle, a fundraising effort aimed at strengthening coastal rescue capabilities and supporting offshore research operations.
The North Carolina-based nonprofit, FPTower Inc., said the raffle will run through Memorial Day, May 25, 2026. Proceeds will fund the donation of four U Safe self-propelled, remotely controlled life-saving buoys to coastal communities that receive the highest number of public nominations through raffle participation.
Each raffle ticket purchased equals “Coastal Point” votes for a nominated coastal community. At the end of the campaign, the four communities with the most points will each receive a U Safe buoy, which is a self-propelled, remotely operated rescue device designed to assist in rapid water rescues while helping protect first responders.
“This campaign represents a direct investment in public safety,” said Richard Neal, executive director of FPTower Inc. “By combining community engagement with lifesaving technology, we are helping coastal communities enhance rescue readiness while continuing our offshore research and maritime safety mission.”
In addition to supporting coastal safety efforts, raffle participants will be entered for a chance to win the grand prize: a five-day, four-night Mission Immersive Eco Adventure for the winner and three guests at Frying Pan Tower, located about 32 miles off the North Carolina coast.
The prize also includes charter vessel transportation, private ocean-facing accommodations, chef-prepared meals, marine exploration opportunities and a guided tour of the historic 1964 offshore light station.
Frying Pan Tower, originally built to protect ships navigating Frying Pan Shoals, now serves as a platform for environmental research, coastal resilience initiatives, and maritime safety outreach.
