Local Culture
Here on Oregon’s north coast, we’re fortunate to have a wealth of nonprofits that support our
community’s commitment to cultural heritage, the arts, stewardship of the land, animal welfare, libraries, and schools.
Many residents are volunteers for these organizations, donating time and
funding for their continued service to our communities.
Nehalem Valley Historical Society
Established in 1987, this all-volunteer, cultural heritage nonprofit is dedicated to the preservation, education and experiences of local history. Visit the museum on Saturdays from 1-4pm, located on the main floor of the Pine Grove Community House – 225 Laneda Ave. in Manzanita. Learn about the native peoples, ancient mariners, pioneers, how towns developed, and famous shipwrecks. Learn more at nehalemvalleyhistory.org
Hoffman Center for the Arts
Whether you’re an artist, or love what artists do, Hoffman Center for the Arts offers is a fascinating and thriving center to indulge artistic dreams. It offers workshops, exhibitions, events, and creative experiences so all ages can explore, create, and connect. Across the street, the Wonder Garden, which started as an empty city lot, is today a flourishing public garden. Open Thursday to Sunday from 12:00-5:00pm. 594 Laneda Ave. Manzanita. Learn more at hoffmanarts.org
Lower Nehalem Community Trust
The Lower Nehalem Community Trust is a community supported, nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and restoration of natural lands. LNCT helps protect the scenic vistas, sparkling rivers and bays, and dense forests that define the Nehalem region of the northern coast of Oregon. In addition, LNCT oversees the Alder Creek Farm in Nehalem, once a 54-acre dairy farm, now a community garden, greenhouse, and ethnobotanical trail, as well as a wildlife sanctuary. Learn more nehalemtrust.org
Mudd Nick Foundation
The Mudd Nick Foundation has been supporting the local school students since 1987. Its mission is to broaden the horizons of all children in North Tillamook County through programs in collaboration with our community partners. The Foundation strives to provide learning experiences that stimulate children to aspire to their greatest potential and pursue their dreams. Each year, annual fundraising events draw participants from around the state, including a golf tournament at Manzanita links. From late spring through early fall, they also staff a crowd-favorite hot dog stand – Mudd Dogs – with the most delicious Chicago-style hot dogs you’ve ever tasted. Learn more at Mudd Nick Foundation
North County Recreation District
NCRD is a special district organization that supports the health and well-being of the through educational, physical, social, and cultural opportunities for all ages and abilities. A new swim center opened in 2026, providing free swim hours, water exercises and swim lessons. The performing arts center is home to the Riverbend Players theater organization, and hosts many presentations, musical performances and much more. There is a gym, pickle ball court, art center and meeting rooms. 36155 9th Street, Nehalem. Learn more at NCRD.org
Animal Haven by the Sea
Animal Haven by the Sea supports rescue efforts for animals in need of care and a home. Founded in 2011 by Lee Blackmon, his passion for helping every living soul touched the lives of countless people and animals alike wherever he traveled. With a mission to protect, rescue, rehab and re-home, this nonprofit has helped both locals and visitors with animal care, including a pet food bank. Learn more at Animal Haven by the Sea
Riverbend Players Community Theater
For over two decades, Riverbend Players has brought comedy, drama, mystery, radio theater, and musicals to Oregon’s North Coast. Powered by volunteers and supported by our community, we create live theater experiences that entertain, inspire, and bring people together. The plays take place at North County Recreation District’s Performing Art Center in Nehalem, 36155 9th St.
