David Brownstein

VP Business Strategy & Planning

David is a newcomer  to the world of EMS. His oldest son, Kole, worked as an EMT under the mentorship of Chief Goodnow for many years. As NPRS significantly expands its service area to meet community needs, David is called to offer his experience and support.

After a 13-year career in investment banking, and a search for more purpose in his work, David came home for good to New Paltz in 1998, where he founded Wild Earth, a nonprofit organization leading nature immersion experiences that cultivate character, confidence, passion, and perseverance in New York’s youth. For nearly twenty years, he led this innovative organization from its humble beginnings serving a few dozen local children to one that now serves close to 4,000 youth, teens and adults each year at summer camps, year-round, and school-based programs. He stepped back as Executive Director in 2023 to fully empower the next generation of capable leaders and prioritize Wild Earth’s legacy for the future.

Today, David directs strategy & development for New Paltz Rescue Squad. He also directs Root Connections, where he offers both his personal and professional experience, mentoring individuals, organizational leaders, and teams focused on serving their communities and creating a more connected, just, and regenerative world.