Premier Financial’s vision for freedom through integrity builds bonds with the Humboldt community and Providence St. Joseph Hospital

“We work with people around their wealth, but without your health, some of it doesn’t matter. If you don’t have good health and providers helping you through life, it impacts everything.”

 More than 20 years ago, Premier Financial began supporting St. Joseph Hospital thanks to three pillars of their integrity leadership model. “This model guides us,” says Wayne Caldwell, founder of Premier Financial. “It’s a fundamental integrity principle for us to be involved in philanthropy, health and financial well-being. All of that comes together through supporting our health care system.”   

Premier Financial’s commitment to health care philanthropy is exemplified by its significant support for Providence St. Joseph Hospital. Most recently, the company has supported the family medicine residency program to address the physician shortage challenge in Humboldt County. Recognizing health care as a fundamental pillar of community well-being, Premier prioritizes initiatives that touch the lives of as many individuals as possible. By investing in Providence St. Joseph Hospital, Premier aims to ensure access to quality health care for all members of the community, regardless of their socioeconomic status.  

Wayne’s team has spearheaded the establishment of Premier Philanthropic, an initiative aimed at institutionalizing and expanding the company’s charitable contributions. 

“Our goal for Premier Philanthropic is to stand as a model for local companies, showing how to incorporate a formal philanthropic effort into your corporate culture,” Wayne says. “And it’s very rewarding. It’s very rewarding for your team, it’s rewarding for your clients, and, of course, it’s hugely beneficial to the community.”  

Ginger Weber, president of Premier Financial, echoes Wayne’s sentiments regarding the importance of philanthropy. As a member of Providence St. Joseph Hospital Foundation’s Women for Wellness donor group, Ginger actively contributes to initiatives aimed at improving health care access and outcomes.  

“This really comes from a place of understanding how important it is for us to have our health,” Ginger says. “We work with people around their wealth, but without your health, some of it doesn’t matter. If you don’t have good health and providers helping you through life, it impacts everything.”   

Premier’s philanthropic initiatives also serve as a powerful recruitment tool, attracting top talent who are motivated by the company’s purpose-driven approach. The next generation of Premier employees are deeply committed to making a meaningful impact through their work, both within the organization and in the broader community.  

“Supporting St. Joseph’s means something to our staff,” Wayne says. “It’s not all about money. It’s about inspiring your team to join the board of directors of an organization they believe in or get involved in some way, big or small, with giving back to the community.”  

In essence, Premier Financial exemplifies the transformative power of corporate philanthropy, leveraging its resources and influence to drive positive change in Humboldt County and beyond. With a steadfast dedication to integrity, generosity, and community engagement, Premier sets a high standard for corporate citizenship and inspires others to follow suit.