Meet an innoFaither is our series to introduce the inspiring optimists in the innoFaith world and what they’re working on and thinking about. We hope it helps you find and engage with each other across the network to advance faith-rooted social innovation and interfaith collaboration for social impact. Or just meet some cool people.
Meet Tameeka Washington, founder of the Interfaith Coalition of Bowie, Maryland. Though she has a full-time job with the Department of Defense, Tameeka devotes her free time to building interfaith bridges in her community. We are excited to be supporting Tameeka’s organization and another partner, The Giving Square, to bring innovative programming to Tameeka’s creative Vacation Interfaith School this summer.
What faith(s), if any, do you practice? Is your faith or practice bringing special inspiration or insight for you in this current moment?
I am a Seventh-Day Adventist and my faith is what grounds and centers me. I was recently promoted at work and started a new job this week and I am feeling very unsure about my ability to do this job well. My faith reminds me that what God has for me is for me. And He will never put more on me than I can bear.
Where do you live?
I live in Bowie, MD.
What's your favorite pastime?
My favorite pastime is reading, eating delicious food, and napping. I love a good restorative nap.
What are you working on currently?
My interfaith nonprofit, which is my labor of love, is planning a one-week Vacation Interfaith School this summer. We are working to identify faith communities in Prince George's County, MD, that would like to participate. The Vacation Interfaith School is an opportunity for young people to learn about different faith traditions. Our hope is that as we celebrate our diversity and highlight our shared values, we also dispel myths and harmful stereotypes.
What question are you thinking about these days?
Does what I'm doing matter? The world is so busy and lately it's been tough to get people's attention even when you're trying to help.
How can people find you?