Vanguard Parking Services: Creating more than jobs in Boston — creating opportunities

For over 40 years, Ernest "Ernie" Washington has measured success differently than most.

When the Vietnam veteran and Purple Heart recipient founded Vanguard Parking Services in Boston, his goal was always more than helping people find a place to park. As a graduate of Northeastern University who calls Roxbury home, he saw it as a way to open doors in traditionally marginalized communities across Greater Boston.

"We’ve always wanted to do more than just provide employment," Washington said. "We want to help people grow, learn and create opportunities for themselves and their families."

The pandemic almost brought it all to an end when a lack of proper guidance meant his business missed out on the first round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding. Then he met Andy Beepath, senior business banking officer at Beacon Bank, who helped make sure Vanguard secured second-round PPP funds.

“We might not be here today without Beacon Bank,” Washington said. “Andy is a fantastic partner who took the time to truly understand our business, who our employees are and, most importantly, what we’re trying to do in the community.”

Committed to making a difference

Over the decades, Vanguard Parking has employed hundreds of community residents, providing services for organizations that include Washington’s alma mater. Many have used their experience as a steppingstone to leadership positions, new careers, and even launch businesses of their own. Washington credits the company's longevity and success to relationships built along the way, including a partnership with Beacon Bank.

"From our first conversation, it was clear that Ernie wasn't focused only on growing a business," said Beepath, who has since also worked to help provide later financing that supported the company's continued growth. "He is focused on creating opportunities for people and strengthening his community. When you see that kind of commitment, you want to do everything you can to help it succeed."

Few people illustrate that impact better than Tanya Howard, assistant general manager, client administrative services at Vanguard. She first met Washington as a Northeastern student and what started as stopgap job after graduation turned into a 20-year career and a mentorship that shaped her both professionally and personally.

"Ernie has been a mentor for many people, including me," said Howard. "He always believed that a job could be the start of something bigger and wanted people to see opportunities for themselves that they might not have thought about before."

A lasting impact

When Howard was diagnosed with cancer early in her career, Washington continued paying her while she underwent treatment and recovered. She says that same commitment has defined his approach to all his employees, family and the community throughout the years.

As Vanguard celebrates four decades in business, Washington remains proud not only of the company he built, but of the potential it continues to help others realize in themselves.

"All my life I've tried to do the right thing," he said. "If I’ve helped people build better futures for themselves and their families through this company, then I've succeeded."

August 2026