06 Dec Vital People/Vital Causes December 2024

Since the launch of Vital Signs 2024 in June, we have proudly presented six editions of Vital People/Vital Causes. We look forward to sharing more key data and themes from our report with you in 2025!

Vital Cause: Quality of life on the Coast

Among the Sunshine Coast Foundation’s funds, the Community Legacy Endowment category stands out for its versatility, addressing a wide range of issues highlighted in Vital Signs 2024. These funds tackle critical needs such as poverty reduction, housing, arts and culture, and support for seniors and youth.

Comprising ten separate funds totaling over $2.6 million – nearly 25% of all funds held by the Foundation – this category is often called the “Heart of the Foundation.” Evolving with the changing needs of the Coast, it serves as a primary funding source for the Foundation’s annual grants program, which exclusively supports local charities.

Donors can establish named funds within this category, contributing directly to initiatives that address the Coast’s most pressing challenges. This flexibility and impact was precisely what drew Bill Longman and Trudene Norman to create their fund.

Vital People: Bill Longman and Trudene Norman

When Bill and Trudene reflect on their journey, one theme stands out: a commitment to giving back. Long-time Sunshine Coast residents and active community members, the couple have directed finances to support causes that strengthen the Coast.

Created in 2007, the Bill Longman and Trudene Longman Endowment Fund is one of the first endowments held at the Sunshine Coast Foundation and part of the Community Legacy Endowment category. From 2019-2024, their fund has granted $20,000 to a wide range of local charities addressing critical issues covered in Vital Signs, including food security, family services, safety, education, and environmental stewardship.

When it came to establishing their fund, the couple chose this category for its ability to adapt to evolving needs. “We felt that the Foundation knew best where to distribute the money, and by supporting this fund type in particular, we knew it would be going toward the greatest needs in our community,” Bill explains.

For years, both have been deeply involved in the Rotary Club, where they’ve contributed to fundraising and supporting community initiatives. Trudene is also an active community volunteer, supporting St. Bart’s Food Bank, and together they are champions of the Gibsons Public Market.

“When you look through Vital Signs, you see there are so many meaningful causes to contribute to. We’re members of some of the organizations that receive funds through the Foundation, and we see first-hand how much that support is appreciated and how impactful it is,” shared Trudene.

The couple hopes their story inspires others to support the Sunshine Coast Foundation. Whether creating a new fund or donating to the Community Legacy Fund, they emphasize the joy of giving. “When you contribute to good causes, you inherently make yourself feel good,” Trudene shares. “You’ll see the impact, and it creates a stronger, more vibrant community.”

As December ushers in the season of giving, Vital People like Bill and Trudene remind us of the impact we can all have in building a brighter future for our beloved Sunshine Coast.

If this Vital Cause speaks to you, consider giving the gift of community this holiday! Support the Community Legacy Fund and your gift will go where the need is greatest.

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Interview and article by Lisa Furfaro.