The North Carolina Aquarium Society is a private, nonprofit organization whose purpose it provide philanthropic support for the three state-operated North Carolina Aquariums at Fort Fisher, Pine Knoll Shores and Roanoke Island, as well as Jennette's Pier in Nags Head. This support is provided through donations, exhibit and program sponsorship, membership programs, gift shop operations, and advocacy. These efforts support the Aquariums’ operational and capital needs, as well as their mission to "Inspire appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments."