Bob & Susan Hoy honoured with the 2025 Darren Entwistle Community Builder Award

Honouring Susan and Bob Hoy: 2025 Darren Entwistle Community Builder Award Recipients

We’re delighted to celebrate Susan and Bob Hoy, recipients of the 2025 Darren Entwistle Community Builder Award, presented at the Gibsons Community Building Society’s 11th Annual Gala Fundraiser & Tribute on October 4, 2025. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to building a healthy, caring, and vibrant community — and Susan and Bob embody these qualities through decades of generosity, leadership, and community spirit.

As long-time owners of IGA Gibsons, the Hoys have played a vital role in the fabric of the Sunshine Coast. Over more than three decades of family ownership, they supported countless local initiatives, including youth sports, school PACs, health and wellness programs, the arts, and much more. Through their charitable gift card program, they raised thousands of dollars annually for community causes, while their strong partnership with local food banks helped provide groceries and financial support to families in need.

Susan and Bob also nurtured local economic growth by mentoring food entrepreneurs and sourcing products from Sunshine Coast producers. Their store became both an important local employer and a welcoming place for many young people to begin their careers.

Their leadership shone particularly brightly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they introduced early morning shopping hours to protect vulnerable community members. Their efforts earned them national recognition, including Arcteryx’s Unsung Heroes award, and were highlighted by MP Patrick Weiler in the House of Commons.

Though they recently announced the sale of their business, Susan and Bob continue to serve the Coast in meaningful ways. Bob recently joined the Sunshine Coast Foundation’s Board of Directors, bringing his deep community knowledge and leadership experience to our work. He will also continue as a consultant for IGA stores on the Coast and remain active in local health initiatives through the Sunshine Coast Division of Family Practice. Susan now volunteers with Sunshine Coast Hospice, continuing her lifelong commitment to caring for others.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Susan and Bob Hoy on this well-deserved recognition. Their dedication to strengthening our community has inspired so many — and their impact will continue to be felt for years to come.

Photo credit: Jen Oke (Coast Photo Co.)

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