Bruce Carter, who recently turned 80, was born in Stratford, Taranaki and grew up in New Plymouth. At age 22, he travelled to Sydney to commence his overseas work experience. Finding great work opportunities there, he ended up remaining in Australia for the next 50 years. Upon retirement, he returned home to New Plymouth and has since become involved with local community and sporting organisations.

He first heard about Taranaki Foundation when meeting with his accountant to discuss estate planning. They suggested the Foundation as way to ensure he could continue giving back to the community in a strategic and meaningful way.

Bruce’s philanthropic focus has been on supporting organisations helping others in need, particularly those that help people suffering hardship and sporting bodies with whom he has been associated in Taranaki.

“I liked the idea of giving through Taranaki Foundation. As I have no immediate family living, I am able to put my savings gathered over the years to good use helping others who are needier than myself,” he says.

He found the practical and efficient way Taranaki Foundation manages donations appealing. “It’s a good way to do it because I don’t have to worry about the day-to-day management of the giving and I like the idea of an endowment fund that will go on forever. It is a much better way to give to my causes for the long-term.”