Giving back to move forward: David Brehmer story

Service often begins with a simple but profound question. What can I give that will strengthen the place I call home? For David Brehmer, that question has shaped a lifetime of philanthropy - from his early years in New York City to his decades of leadership in cooperative finance. Today, it guides his work on the PeaceHealth St. Joseph Foundation Board, where he helps ensure that exceptional, compassionate healthcare remains accessible for every family in Whatcom County.

David grew up amid the sweeping social movements of the 1960s, where conversations about justice, equity and community responsibility were part of daily life. His mother encouraged social awareness. His father modeled kindness and commitment. Together, they taught him that a meaningful life is one lived in service to others. That belief led him to cooperative finance and eventually into board leadership, where community strength is built through collective action

His connection to PeaceHealth began not in a board room, but in a neighbor’s living room, during a discussion about the Peter Paulsen Pavillion and expanding women’s and children’s services. As the father of twin daughters who spent their first week in the NICU, David carries deep gratitude for caregivers. This made joining the Foundation Board feel like both a calling and an opportunity.

“Healthcare becomes very personal very quickly,” David says. “When your family needs care, you depend completely on the people and the system around you. That is why supporting PeaceHealth matters. It matters for all of us.”

Still early in his board service, David has been struck by the compassion and commitment of PeaceHealth caregivers. He calls them champions of the community and believes their work deserves not only recognition but continuous community support.

For David, strong healthcare is essential to a thriving region. Families can only live, work and retire with confidence when excellent care is close to home. Supporting PeaceHealth, he says, is an investment in neighbors, in the next generation and in the future of Whatcom County.

PeaceHealth is grateful for David and for all Foundation board members who help us live our Mission. With leaders like him, we are truly stronger together.

About PeaceHealth Foundations: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a non-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. Since 1890, PeaceHealth has been guided by a Mission of healing and compassion. Today, PeaceHealth Foundations carry forward that legacy — powered by philanthropy and grounded in community. As the philanthropic partner to PeaceHealth’s nine medical centers and more than 160 clinics, we help expand access, advance technology and empower caregivers to provide exceptional and compassionate care. Every gift ensures that outstanding care continues to reach families, friends and neighbors throughout the Northwest. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Discover the impact of philanthropy at peacehealth.org/foundation.