05 Dec Vital People/Vital Causes December 2025

Drawing on key data and themes from our Vital Signs 2024 report, this is our final Vital People/Vital Causes for 2025. All previous editions of Vital People/Vital Causes can be found on our website.

Vital Cause: Give Where You Live

Small businesses are the backbone of the Sunshine Coast economy. The Sunshine Coast Foundation’s Vital Signs 2024 report highlights that 99% of the Coast’s 8,846 business locations have fewer than 20 employees, with retail remaining one of the region’s top employment sectors.

In early 2024, Sechelt Downtown Business Association members were asked to compare their business’ performance to the pre-pandemic year of 2019. Of the businesses that responded, 92% said costs had gone up by as much as 150% with rent and wages cited as the main factors.

Despite rising costs and post-pandemic challenges, many business owners continue to prioritize giving back to their communities. One family that embodies that spirit of resilience, is the Boyd family.

Vital People: The Boyd Family

No matter what you’re involved in on the Sunshine Coast – sports, community events, or local fundraisers – you’ve likely seen the Kenmac Parts business name. From sponsorship to donations, the Boyd family’s support has stretched across the community for decades.

Originally founded in 1959, Kenmac was purchased by the Boyd family eight years later. Today, the family business is three generations strong, with Shawn and Stephine Boyd at the helm and their son Jordan now stepping into ownership. With a team of nine, Kenmac has built a reputation not only for dependable service but also for its deep-rooted community spirit.

“We’ve always believed in supporting the community that supports us,” says Stephine. “Our kids grew up here. We sponsored their baseball and soccer teams, and we’ve continued to help wherever we can. It’s just part of who we are.”

That commitment shows up everywhere, from donating to local auctions and fundraisers to helping with The Salvation Army’s Christmas kettles and contributing regularly to the Coast’s food banks. “The cost of living is hard for a lot of people right now,” adds Shawn. “If we’re in a position to help, we do. Every little bit makes a difference.”

When the pandemic hit, Kenmac adapted quickly with sidewalk service and hands-on support. “Even when our doors were closed, we made sure people could still get what they needed,” says Shawn. And that level of care isn’t limited to crisis moments. Over the years, Kenmac staff have gone as far as delivering parts to customers who were stuck on the ferry. “People remember things like that,” adds Shawn.

It’s that “go the extra mile” attitude that has helped Kenmac endure for more than six decades. But for the Boyds, giving back isn’t just good business – it’s a family value. “My father, Larry Boyd, taught me to always lend a hand,” reflects Shawn. “We were both raised to help others,” adds Stephine. “Our parents did it, and we’ve passed it on to our kids. Community is about showing up for each other.”

As the holiday season approaches, the Boyd family reminds us that generosity – whether through time, resources, or simple acts of kindness – creates a ripple effect that strengthens our whole Coast.

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This season, consider how you can give where you live. Support a local business, volunteer your time, or explore giving through the Sunshine Coast Foundation.

Every gesture helps build a brighter, more caring community: tinyurl.com/SCFLegacy

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Article by Lisa Furfaro.