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Key to Hope 2025: The Power of Connection

Posted September 19, 2025

Thank you for another successful Key to Hope! On September 17, more than 1,100 members of our community gathered at the Westin Seattle for our 22nd annual luncheon. To everyone who contributed to Key to Hope, thank you for supporting Plymouth’s evidence-based and compassionate approach to ending homelessness.

Together, we raised over $1.5 million!  If you were unable to join us at Key to Hope this year, there’s still time to make a gift online.

Dr. Vivek Murthy at a Plymouth building with staff; resident Searetha Simons is second from left


At this year’s event, former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy delivered a powerful keynote on the ways community and connection are vital to leading lives of purpose and fulfillment. Dr. Murthy spoke about loneliness as a public health crisis – as dangerous as smoking or diabetes. His words reminded us that connection isn’t just healing. It’s lifesaving.

Governor Bob Ferguson closed the event with remarks on recent progress in affordable housing legislation and appreciation for Plymouth’s impact. He also awarded Searetha Simons, Plymouth resident and housing advocate, as “Washingtonian of the Day.”

Please watch and share our powerful new video “The Starting Place for Hope”, which features the stories of Searetha and Michael, two individuals who rebuilt their lives in permanent supportive housing. Their journeys reflect what’s possible when people are met with compassion, stability, and services tailored to their needs.

We are honored by and grateful for the generosity of our community. Each of us can help make a difference, and it takes our combined efforts to build the future of our region together. Would you like to engage with Plymouth as a volunteer? Check our volunteer page for current opportunities.