Introducing a next-generation Tacoma leader: Pastor-enterepreneur Alex Davis gives reason to hope

Alex Davis, son of the Rev. Alfred C. Davis, founder of Tacoma’s Eastside Community Church, is proof the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

I first met Alfred in 1967. He was pivotal in changing the course of my life. Because of him, I went from Black Panther to pink panther.

Alex is one of Alfred’s four sons. After the retirement of his father, Alex took over as pastor at Assembly of Believers, formerly known as Eastside Community Church. Indeed, Alex is the right man for the job.

Alex possesses the five essential traits of a great millennium leader: He’s innovative, socially conscientious and adaptable; he values diversity; and his enthusiasm for entrepreneurship is contagious.

Several days ago I had the pleasure of interviewing Alex at his North Lights Coffee Company in Parkland, one of several enterprises he owns.

As I advanced toward the coffee shop, nestled in the shadows of Pacific Lutheran University, I was intrigued by three words on the outside of the shop: Inspire. Ignite. Shine.

I was allured by the smell of freshly brewed coffee, captivated by the sound of R&B music and greeted with a heartfelt welcome. PLU students sat with opened laptops, quietly immersed in their studies.

It didn’t take long to realize that Alex is the second embodiment of the three words that hang on the outside of the shop. His personality is as invigorating as the Washington state red apple. His faith, tenacity and vision are that of his father. His fortitude is that of a lion without the roar, his spirit like a dove.

I had a deja vu moment. My memory took me back decades when I had the good fortune of meeting another gentle giant, Rosey Grier, the minister and former pro football player. Alex epitomizes that same spirit.

When I asked how he would describe himself, he asserted that he is a transformational leader, one who makes difficult decisions, not “feel good decisions.” Faith and prayer are his core values.

Alex has a youth mentorship program, and how blessed those youth are. It’s clear this young minister is not motivated by doing what makes sense, but rather by “what makes faith.” As he stated, he doesn’t seek purpose, but purpose seeks him.

Additionally, he has a very intense, 40-day program called, “I challenge life.” It goes beyond self-improvement, though it does that. Participants find physical, emotional and spiritual nourishment by exploring movement, creative outlets, resources and better relationships.

He also has published a workbook to assist with the program. Approximately 100 people have met the challenge.

Other civic involvement includes Franklin Pierce School Board member, board member for Puget Sound First Tee, and Rotary Club member. Recently he completed his annual Christmas giveaway, serving hundreds of low-income families.

One of Alex’s overarching visions is to help teach African Americans how to replenish themselves through creating generational wealth.

Although he is constantly giving of himself to others, he is very much aware of dedicating quality time to his wife and family.

After spending quality time with Alex, I am unequivocally hopeful. He is such a gift to us all. One of his favorite quotes is: “Don’t let life challenge you, you challenge life.”

Rarely will you find such a young, committed and unselfish leader. If you need a word of inspiration, I encourage you to drop in on Alex at the North Lights Coffee Company. You will leave inspired as I did.

Bob Penton of South Hill has served as both pastor and community organizer in Tacoma’s Hilltop neighborhood for 52 years. He is one of five reader columnists who write for this page. Reach him at Robert.Penton68@gmail.com