Honoring Reverend Elijah Washington For 35 years, an integral leader, shaping GD Association with his unwavering commitment and profound wisdom.

In December, the GD Association was privileged to honor a truly dedicated and long-serving member of our board, Reverend Elijah Washington. For 35 years, Reverend Washington has been an integral leader, shaping our association with his unwavering commitment and profound wisdom.

Reverend Washington's life is a testament to service, bridging faith, business, and community. Within his church, he has been a cornerstone of governance and spiritual leadership, serving over 50 years on the Deacon Board, 40 years on the Minister Board, and 20 years as a Trustee.

His commitment extends into his professional life and civic engagement. Professionally, Reverend Washington managed two major sites at the Port of Seattle—291 and Fisherman’s Terminal—leading 18 employees and serving over 2,000 customers weekly. He is also the founder of Omega Coffee, a business rooted in connection and hospitality. As Vice President of the GD Association and a founding board member of the Sons of Hades Masonic chapter in Renton, he continues to shape organizations that champion integrity, mentorship, and goodwill.

Bringing a business degree from Los Angeles and decades of hands-on leadership, Reverend Washington contributes operational insight, community wisdom, and a profound heart for service to every role he undertakes. His active involvement in street ministry reflects his core belief in meeting people where they are and building bridges through compassion. On the GD Association board, he has consistently championed values-driven leadership and a vision for sustainable, people-centered growth.

Our Board President and Executive Director Terry Lott has this to say about Reverend Washington: "Rev. Washington has been extremely important to me personally and professionally as a mentor for many years. We first met in 1984, and he guided me through my deaconship at Goodwill Missionary Baptist Church. His profound wisdom has been a constant guide in decision-making for the GD Association, serving as my trusted confidant. Frankly, without his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment, the GD Association might not exist today."

We extend our deepest gratitude to Reverend Elijah Washington for his 35 years of tireless service and dedication to the GD Association. His legacy of leadership will continue to inspire us for years to come.