There was little doubt of Verna MacDonnells intent, when she was deciding how best to support the community she knows and loves, now and long after she has left this earth. Verna believes that to look forward, we all need the firm foundation of the past. Her personal interest in preserving the heritage of Opotiki is something she is involved in daily, via her many volunteer hours at the Opotiki Museum and the time she has given over the years as a volunteer at the De Luxe Theatre. Verna is committed, and loves nothing more than sharing an interesting snippet she has learned about the district or one of the founding families. 

Verna decided in 2012 to set up an Endowment Fund with the Eastern Bay Community Foundation, which she said was a 'no brainer' as she was able to choose the beneficiaries of her generosity and loved that they would , over time, gain so much more than her original gift. She also liked that her family name would be remembered in her home town, where she has lived, worked and prayed. 

Her joy each year, as her gift is distributed to the community is palpable. Her generosity belies the frugal life she leads in service to others. 

Thank you Verna for your wisdom, your humour and most of all your gift to the community of Opotiki.