More than $726,000 of their own contributed funds had been thoughtfully allocated to initiatives that will improve patient care, support their colleagues, and reach out to those in need in our community.

Something remarkable happened at this years Physicians Giving Society Distribution Committee meeting. These physicians made an extraordinary commitment by personally investing in the place where they practice medicine every day.

Think about that. These medical professionals already dedicate their time and talent to caring for patients at Ascension St. Vincent's. But they go even further. They're also giving their treasure by writing checks, making monthly commitments, and choosing to support the mission with their own resources - examples of physician leadership in action.

This is physician stewardship in its fullest sense: time, talent, and treasure working together to strengthen our healing ministry.

"When our community comes together to improve healthcare, everyone wins," Dr. David Koehler, anesthesiologist and longtime supporter, said. "That's why I believe in the Physicians Giving Society. Giving provides vital resources, pioneering treatments, and a healthier, brighter future for all of us."

While Ascension St. Vincent's continues to make significant institutional investments, these physicians amplify that impact by pooling their personal contributions. Their gifts are funding Virtual Reality training systems for nurses, expanding NICU capacity, and enabling Mobile Health Outreach to care for those without easy access to medical services.

They're not just enhancing facilities. They're investing in people and in hope.

Their allocations reflect four key priorities:

• $250,000 to expand Mobile Health Outreach Ministry, reaching the 39% of Northeast Florida neighbors struggling financially.
• $250,000 matching gift to support the Clay County NICU II expansion, helping families stay together during critical care.
• Over $56,000 in technology enhancements, including Virtual Reality nursing training and child-friendly treatment spaces.
• Nearly $170,000 in caregiver support, recognizing and uplifting the teams who make healing possible every day.

See the complete list of 2025 funded initiatives here.

Since its inception, the Physicians Giving Society has contributed more than $1.4 million in personal funds to support Ascension St. Vincent's mission. These are not corporate grants or third-party donations — these are physicians choosing, as a community, to give back to the institution they serve.

Each contributing physician has a voice in how the funds are used, ensuring every dollar reflects their shared wisdom and commitment.

"When I see our physicians investing their own resources alongside their time and talent, I'm witnessing true community leadership in action. They're not just treating patients, they're building the kind of partnerships where healing and hope flourish together," Darren White, Executive Director at Ascension St. Vincent's Foundation, said. "This is exactly the collaboration that makes our mission possible and our impact lasting."

But the true impact isn't measured only in dollars. It's in the nurse who receives better training, the parent who doesn't have to choose between work and care, and the family who stays together in the NICU because of expanded services.

As a Catholic health ministry, we believe healing is a sacred calling. These physicians are living that call, extending their care beyond the exam room, into the boardroom, into their checkbooks, and into the community.

Whether through a monthly commitment of $167 or an annual gift of $2,000, every contribution represents a physician who believes that this mission is worth investing in, not just with their time and talent, but with their treasure too.

Their actions reflect a profound truth: when physicians lead with generosity, communities heal with dignity.

Ready to be part of something extraordinary? Visit our Physicians Giving Society page to learn more.