Originally from Maryland, Ike Whitaker now resides in Spokane, WA with his three children and beautiful wife. Ike is a devoted community member with a heart for all people from all walks of life. Not only is he the owner of Whitaker Family Furniture, where all people can find a place at the table, he and his wife are also the overseers of Access churches outreach ministry “the bridge” where they equip people to go out into the community and be the hands and feet of Jesus. Coming out of addiction himself, Ike carries a unique passion for people who feel “stuck.”

Once “destined for greatness” on track to be a pro football player, Ike seemingly ““lost it all” when the power of addiction had told him it won, little did he know Jesus had something for him even greater than he could ever imagine. He stands before us today a changed man, a family man, a friend to the community, a business owner, a lover of football and all things hot sauce, and a devoted and passionate believer of Jesus Christ.