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Club Meeting: Kiwanis Doernbecher’s Children’s Cancer Program
Thursday, March 7 at 11:45 am – 1:00 pm
John Brookens, a dedicated Kiwanis member, will share the impactful journey of the Kiwanis-Doernbecher partnership since 1985. From funding critical neonatal and oncology equipment to training physician-scientists, their efforts have made significant strides in pediatric cancer care. John will highlight the program’s success in producing world-renowned experts in Pediatric Oncology and Hematology. His talk will underscore our shared commitment to ending childhood cancer, a mission more vital than ever.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Kiwanis Biography
John Brookens has been a dedicated member of the Pacific Northwest Kiwanis for an impressive 42 years. His unwavering commitment to the Kiwanis Doernbecher Children’s Cancer Program has been a cornerstone of his service, having been a Board member since 2007 and serving as its President from 2019 to 2021. In 2010, John played a pivotal role in co-founding the Pacific Northwest District Kiwanis Children’s Cancer Program, in partnership with Seattle Childrens Hospital and British Columbia Childrens Hospital, showcasing his deep commitment to aiding children with cancer.
Personal Life
In his personal life, John has shared a 49-year-long journey with his wife Deborah. Together, they have raised three children and now enjoy three granddaughters. John’s academic achievements include earning dual degrees in Business and Organizational Psychology from Portland State University in 1973.
Diverse Career
John’s professional life is marked by diversity and adventure. From obtaining his first business license at the age of 12, he has embraced various roles including a trapper, Arctic explorer, Alaska Pipeline teamster, and a wholesale grocer to Alaska’s bush villages. His entrepreneurial ventures extended into areas like newspaper publishing, beauty supply, furniture manufacturing, and hardwood flooring importation. John also contributed globally as a Small Business Trade Consultant to the People’s Republic of China.
Retirement and Continued Dedication
Even after retiring in 2016, John’s passion for combating children’s cancer remains undiminished. He firmly believes that children should not suffer from cancer and is committed to the Kiwanis Doernbecher Childrens Cancer Program, striving to end cancer in children and leave a lasting legacy in this vital cause.