Celebrating Peoples Bank’s $1 Million gift as construction begins on the Peter Paulsen Pavilion

Community begins with care and commitment. It grows when people choose to invest not just in buildings or institutions but in one another. Since its inception in 1921, Peoples Bank’s commitment to community has shaped more than a century of service. That commitment is taking a powerful new form as construction of the Peter Paulsen Pavilion is underway, made possible through a $1 million philanthropic investment made in 2021 through PeaceHealth St. Joseph’s Stronger Together Campaign. Rooted deeply in the Whatcom community, the gift reflects a responsibility to people and a shared faith in what healthcare can mean for generations to come. 

For Charles LeCocq, Chairman and CEO of Peoples Bank, the decision to give is also a part of his family values. He was raised to see giving not as a gesture but as a way of living. His parents, Irwin and Frances LeCocq, modeled that belief through lifelong investments in education, civic life and community institutions across Whatcom County. Their example shaped how Charles leads today, carrying forward the understanding that strong communities do not happen by chance. They are built through purpose and care. 

Asked what inspired Peoples Bank to make a $1 million commitment to PeaceHealth St. Joseph and the Stronger Together Campaign, LeCocq did not hesitate. 

“In 2021, when we heard about the need for an improved medical center in our community, we knew we needed to act,” he said. “The Stronger Together Campaign resonated with us because it is about more than a building. It is about making sure everyone has access to healthcare, no matter their circumstances.” 

That conviction led Peoples Bank to step forward as one of the lead supporters of the campaign. As we celebrate the success of the Stronger Together Campaign, the impact is already taking shape. Demolition of the former main lobby in the North Tower began on Monday, May 4, marking the next phase of construction for the six-story Peter Paulsen Pavilion at PeaceHealth St. Joseph. The Pavilion helps expand emergency, inpatient and Women’s and Children’s care while increasing capacity of private patient rooms. The expansion creates space where patients, families and caregivers feel supported during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Designed with the future in mind, the Pavilion ensures that access to care keeps pace with a growing community. 

LeCocq also spoke to the responsibility that comes with being rooted in a community. 

“We all live and work in this community,” he said. “We raise our families here. We employ local people here. We depend on the same essential services as our neighbors. This gift reflects our belief that strong local partnerships are critical to meeting changing community needs.” 

Healthcare, for LeCocq, is more than a mission or a strategy. It is personal. Like many families, he has walked through hospital doors carrying hope, fear, relief and gratitude. Those moments shaped how he imagines the Pavilion years from now. 

“When I think about the Pavilion in the future,” he said, “I hope patients feel seen and supported. I hope caregivers have the space and resources they need. I hope families understand they are not alone.” 

That sense of responsibility also shapes LeCocq’s philosophy toward giving. 

“Our philosophy of giving is grounded in stewardship and gratitude,” he said. “Hospitals are essential to a healthy community and supporting them is part of our responsibility.” 

LeCocq hopes Peoples Bank’s decision encourages others to reflect on their own role in shaping the future. 

“Philanthropy should be central to leadership,” he said. “It reflects how you want to be remembered. It shows people you are invested in this community for the long haul.” 

Through a $1 million investment in PeaceHealth’s Stronger Together Campaign, Peoples Bank has helped make the Peter Paulsen Pavilion a reality, fulfilling a generational promise. A promise that care will be there when it is needed. A promise that community investment can change lives. A promise that when people lead with purpose, exceptional healthcare gives us more time, more milestones and more memories.

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.