Brooks' community service earns WOW honors

For more than two decades, Sue Brooks has quietly helped shape the heart of Bonner County through volunteerism, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to community service. In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, Brooks has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Bonner County Women of Wisdom Lifetime Achievement Award.

After moving to Sandpoint in 1999 with her husband Dave, Brooks quickly immersed herself in community service. Almost immediately after arriving, she joined the Community Assistance League, eager to become involved in her new hometown and contribute wherever she could. That commitment quickly expanded into decades of volunteer work benefiting countless local organizations and residents.

Brooks became deeply involved with Kinderhaven, serving on its Board of Directors and dedicating years to supporting children and families in crisis. Her work also included extensive involvement with the Festival of Trees fundraiser, where she became known for her creativity, hard work, and the warmth she brought each year.

Brooks joined Women Honoring Women in its early years and has remained engaged with the program in various ways for more than two decades. For many years, she has also been a dedicated flagger at the annual Lost in the '50s parade, on-site by 5 a.m. to help keep the beloved event running safely.

Her service has spanned many areas of the community. Brooks served on the City of Sandpoint Parks and Recreation Commission and, since its inception, has volunteered with Bonner General Health’s Heart Ball, helping raise funds for equipment and projects that support the nonprofit hospital. She has also contributed to numerous local political campaigns and continues to volunteer at the Bonner County Historical Museum, helping preserve and share the region’s history.

Friends and family describe Brooks as someone who naturally brings people together—whether organizing fundraisers, supporting Festival of Trees displays and deliveries, helping friends in difficult times, or offering steady kindness and encouragement. Her reputation is rooted in generosity, grace, and genuine compassion.

Before relocating to North Idaho, Brooks was also deeply involved in volunteer leadership, serving as PTA president multiple times, leading Girl Scout troops, and participating in numerous school and youth programs. Her lifelong dedication to service has followed her throughout every chapter of her life.

Now, after years spent honoring and supporting others in the community, Sue Brooks is being honored herself — a fitting tribute to a woman whose kindness and service have touched countless lives throughout Bonner County.

Brooks joins fellow honorees Dee Ann Smith, Nancy McAdam, Sharon Bistodeau, and Rebecca Hawkins as this year’s Women of Wisdom recipients — women celebrated for their leadership, service, and lasting impact on the community.

The 2026 Women of Wisdom Gala Luncheon honoring these remarkable women will be held Saturday, June 13, at Marigold Bistro in Sandpoint. Tickets are $40 and may be purchased by calling Diane at 208-290-6362 or by emailing [email protected].