Where are you from and what brought you to Seattle?
Rashad was born in the “other Washington”–Washington DC. Rashad joined the United States Air Force, which allowed him to live and work across multiple bases in the US and even overseas. He spent time at bases in the Seattle area throughout his time with the Air Force.
After completing his military service, he ultimately settled in Washington state in 1969. In Seattle, Rashad met a good friend who would ultimately become his wife. Rashad and his wife have been together for over 50 years!
How are you connected to SPSC, and what are some of your favorite activities at the Center?
Rashad credits his wife with finding the South Park Senior Center when she was looking for a place to take EnhanceFitness classes. In her search, she found that South Park Senior Center offered exercise programming, and they made their first visit in 2018. They have been coming back ever since to enjoy the weekly dinners and the programming offered.
Rashad thinks that SPSC is unique among all other Centers in the area. SPSC stands out to him due to the emphasis placed on celebrating cultural connections and experiences. He also finds the weekly dinners to be top-notch, similar to going to a restaurant. He appreciates the nutritional consideration for where he is in his life, with the balanced meals including fresh fruit and salads. He feels that everyone who comes to SPSC is taken care of and appreciated with the elevated dining experience offered with meals served by the friendly staff/volunteers, linen tablecloths, and silverware!
Interests and hobbies
Rashad retired after a career working for the City of Seattle. If he could go back in time, he would have been a math teacher, though–he reads math books like novels! He has always been passionate about education and supporting children. So it makes sense that after his formal retirement, he returned to fulfill his passion for teaching and has worked as a substitute teacher in local school districts. Rashad has found this experience to be incredibly rewarding and loves to make a difference in the lives of others.