We’re proud to celebrate Mark Barbieri, real estate industry leader and longtime supporter of Plymouth Housing, for being named one of Puget Sound Business Journal’s 2025 Directors of the Year! This annual award recognizes 13 exceptional board members who have helped guide organizations through significant challenges and growth. 

A decades-long champion

Mark has worked in downtown Seattle for over 36 years and spent more than four decades in the real estate and property management industry. In 2002, he co-founded Washington Holdings, a real estate investment, development, and operating company. Recently retired, Mark continues to serve in an advisory role at the company. 

Mark sees a natural alignment between Plymouth’s mission and his professional background in real estate. As someone who specializes in creating and maintaining high-quality built environments, he finds it especially meaningful to apply those principles to spaces that offer stability and dignity to people overcoming homelessness. 

 

“Plymouth was at the forefront of adopting Housing First and harm reduction models — approaches that were once novel and are now proven to be highly effective,” said Mark. “It is refreshing and inspiring to see an organization embrace practices that truly meet people where they are.” 

Mark joined Plymouth’s Partner Cultivation Committee, securing partnerships and support, before becoming a member of Plymouth’s Board of Trustees in 2022, where he currently serves as Secretary. He is also on the Strategic Planning Committee, helping shape the organization’s vision for the future. Last year, Mark served as a co-chair for Key to Hope, Plymouth’s annual luncheon that brings together our local community to end homelessness. 

Helping residents access essential items 

One of the projects closest to Mark’s heart is the revitalization of the Plymouth Supply Center, a store where residents can shop, free of charge, for home goods and essential items. When the need arose to reignite the project in 2024, Mark saw an opportunity for Washington Holdings to help. His team successfully renovated a vacant ground-floor storefront that now supports Plymouth’s residents and operational efficiency. 

The Supply Center provides our residents with the agency to choose items they need and want, while giving Plymouth a place to organize and store material donations. “From management to tradespeople, everyone rose to the occasion. They were motivated by the cause and dedicated to making it happen,” Mark said. 

Mark has made an impact through decades of thoughtful leadership, but he’s quick to deflect the spotlight. “Nothing happens at Plymouth without the incredible work, focus, and professionalism of the staff,” he said. “Everything that Washington Holdings contributed to the Supply Center was the result of a true team effort — people at every level coming together with goodwill and commitment.” 

 

Leading with humility

Mark is deeply moved by the people Plymouth serves — individuals who have experienced long-term homelessness, often compounded by trauma and systemic barriers. “Each person has their own story and path to wellness. Plymouth provides the stability and supports they need to move forward, and it’s incredibly effective — 95% of residents remain housed.” 

Mark’s humility, dedication, and deep respect for both his colleagues and the Plymouth staff make him a standout leader. “I’m just lucky to be bookended by two incredible communities — my work family and my Plymouth family,” he said. “I’m proud to be affiliated with an organization that has taken the courageous approach to solving such a daunting challenge and has scaled up as needs have grown.” 

Congratulations, Mark, on this well-earned recognition. Plymouth is grateful for your continued support, and we are so proud that you’re part of our family!