Denita Washington, Our Very Own Adams Township Trustee

Written by Tabitha Ervin

In 2015, Denita Washington lost everything when her home in Crown Colony went up in flames.  Some items couldn’t be replaced; others were gone forever. Immediately she had to figure out things most of us take for granted: where would she get her next meal, or where would she lay her head for the night?  While the road to restoration was difficult, Washington was grateful for the love and support she received from friends, family, and complete strangers.  And her personal experience with crisis made her more sensitive to others in need.

So, when asked to consider running for Adams Township trustee, Washington felt she could not pass on the opportunity to serve people in the midst of their own struggles.

Washington describes her leadership style as “leading with love”, and in the first year of her four-year term she has set out to ensure every aspect of the culture of the township office reflects her commitment to meeting people where they are and giving them the love and respect everyone deserves.

As the first African-American and woman to hold the position as Adams Township Trustee, Washington understands the responsibility of representing her community.

In her short time in the position, Washington is extremely proud of the attendance by community members at her board meetings as well as adding a website for clients to have access to information they need online instead of having to come to the office.

She said her previous experience with Girlz Rock which will be 10 years old soon, and her almost 20 years combined working for Fort Wayne Community Schools as well as East Allen County Schools in administrative positions, and as a family group specialist, has prepared her to serve and lead the Township in this position.  Having experienced a house fire herself, Washington knows firsthand what it’s like when trying to get what you need in crisis and wants to make sure that she and her staff are meeting people where they are and serving them in times of need.

Washington is excited for the future where she feels “purposed or chosen” to lead and serve the community through her position as the Adams Township Trustee.  She feels that her programming experience along with her passion for people will help with her influence and impact in the community.