When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?

My passion for community service truly ignited in 2016 when I joined the board for the Special Olympics USA Games, which were held in Seattle in 2018. Until then, my experience with board service had been limited. However, I quickly realized the profound and multifaceted impact of community involvement. It wasn’t just about the immense satisfaction that comes from helping others; it was about building meaningful connections with fellow business leaders and fostering a sense of camaraderie that enriched every aspect of my life.

That initial spark inspires me to this day. My motivation is rooted in a simple belief: A strong community is built when people come together to support one another. My work is driven by a belief in mutual support, focusing on uniting our city through sports, easing the burden for those facing health and housing challenges, and empowering youth with financial literacy.

Ultimately, my inspiration comes from seeing the tangible, positive change we can create when we invest our time and energy in our community. It’s about building a better, more connected, and more supportive Seattle for everyone.

In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?

Plymouth’s importance in ending homelessness extends far beyond providing shelter; they are true community builders. In my view, their integration of supportive services within their housing programs is what makes them so effective. By offering on-site case management, health care services, and opportunities for social connection, Plymouth fosters a sense of belonging and stability for its residents. This holistic approach not only helps people exit homelessness but also empowers them to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into the community. Plymouth’s work is a powerful reminder that ending homelessness is not just about housing, but about restoring dignity and creating a supportive network for our most vulnerable neighbors.

Why should someone vote for you as a dancer?

While I may not be a professional dancer, I am a professional when it comes to giving my all. I’m committed to giving 110% to both my performance and our fundraising goals, ensuring we can make the biggest possible impact for this community.

What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!

My friends and family are incredibly excited and supportive of this adventure! They’ve been my biggest cheerleaders, and their encouragement has been a huge source of motivation. It means the world to me to have them behind me as I take on this new and exciting challenge.

Where will you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?

If I win, the Mirror Ball Trophy is going straight to the family room! It will be placed in a prime spot where everyone has to walk around it daily — a constant, sparkling reminder of this incredible journey.

When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?

I have been fortunate in my life. When I graduated college, it felt like a good time to start giving back and it has continued ever since.

In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?

Plymouth provides security and safety for people who have not experienced that for quite some time. By provided a home, Plymouth provides stability and security that can be a foundation for change.

Why should someone vote for you as a dancer?

What I lack in ability I will make up for in enthusiasm and enjoyment.

What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!

Most are surprised but excited to see me on stage.

Where will you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?

I might keep it on my record player so I can shine a light on it and get the full effect… or on my mantel!

When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?

Making a difference has always mattered in my life. I grew up in a small community on Whidbey Island, and our family was very involved in serving others. As an adult, I’ve supported several charities as an emcee. I’ve volunteered before with Plymouth Housing. I’ve also personally supported Seattle Children’s, Footprints of Fight, Bridges Teen Recovery, Habitat for Humanity and Forefront suicide prevention.

In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?

Everyone deserves a safe space they can call home! Everyone. As I cover our region, I see the challenges people face, daily. And as I see on our own streets, too many of our sons, daughters, sisters and brothers are suffering.

Why should someone vote for you as a dancer?

I have never danced for an audience. So I am pushing out of my comfort zone to give it everything I’ve got for an entertaining and exciting performance. I’m determined to get up on your feet!

What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!

While many have asked, “Wait…what? Have you ever danced?” I’ve also received a lot of support and encouragement. My adult “kids” are worried the phrase “break a leg” might really come true for me.

Where will you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?

The question is where won’t I keep it? I’ll display it proudly in as many places as possible. If I win, I promise I will put my costume back on and do a livestream of me parading through downtown Seattle with the mirror ball trophy.

When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?

I first became passionate about making a difference in my community through the events I’ve had the privilege of emceeing. Being out in the community and seeing firsthand the challenges people face really opened my eyes to the need around us. At the same time, my faith has always taught me the value of serving others, and that combination inspired me to take action and find ways to give back.

In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?

Plymouth Housing does so much more than provide housing — they give people the support and resources they need to rebuild their lives. Plymouth knows ending homelessness means more than just putting a roof over someone’s head. They move people from crisis to stability and help them thrive long-term.

Why should someone vote for you as a dancer?

Vote for me because I promise to bring the energy, the heart, and the passion to the routine. Every vote helps me show my kids that Mom still has the moves after 50 — and that stepping outside your comfort zone is always worth it.

What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!

They’re not surprised at all because they know how much I love to dance. My friends and family are so supportive, especially my two daughters, who insisted I overcome my fear of fundraising to take advantage of this opportunity.

Where will you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?

It would go in our home office, right behind my husband’s desk — so every day, during his virtual meetings, he gets to explain why there’s a giant shiny disco ball in his background!

When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?

My father found himself houseless at age nine. He was walking home from school when the border between North and South Korea was established between his school (now in the “South”), and his home (now in the “North”). He never went home again. He never saw his parents again, to this day. He survived living in an abandoned shed on his own until he was placed in an orphanage.

In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?

Plymouth’s Housing First model provides the foundation upon which a life can be rebuilt, especially with the wrap-around services that are offered to see the person as a full human being. I am astounded and inspired by Plymouth’s high success rates. This is what can happen when people are afforded dignity and connection.

Why should someone vote for you as a dancer?

This is so far outside my comfort zone — it’s not even in the same galaxy! But I’m here because I believe that taking action in our local community is more important than ever before. Finding new ways to connect has been extraordinarily helpful to growing my resilience. I feel honored to be able to serve as a vehicle to connect my community to the incredible impact of Plymouth Housing. Please vote early and often!

What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!

My friend Jane Broom (who danced last year) inspires me in so many ways. I am just following in her glamorous footsteps!

Where will you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?

Around my neck at all times.

When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?

Both my parents have always been incredibly active in giving their time and resources to their community. I was raised to give back, even when times are tough. I’m inspired by the many people I know who have battled addiction and homelessness and who felt completely hopeless — until they found community, shelter, and support.

In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?

Providing wraparound services — including life-skills training, community connection, and job-readiness support — within a safe and stable environment is critical for our region. Plymouth delivers all of these services exceptionally well.

Why should someone vote for you as a dancer?

At my core, I am a connector — of people, opportunities, and resources. Voting for me helps expand my reach as a conduit for meaningful connections. Having started my business during COVID as a single mom, I also hope to inspire women in our region to take a leap of faith and build something of their own.

What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!

They are excited, supportive, and a little nervous for me — since I’m admittedly a pretty clumsy person! 😊

Where will you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?

Bellevue has been my hometown for 19 years, so I would want to keep it at Plymouth Crossing as a symbol to inspire other single moms in the region to believe in themselves and pursue their own business dreams.

When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community?

I came to America in 1981 as a five-year-old refugee from Laos. I grew up in Raymond, Washington — a small coastal town of about 2,000 people that shaped who I am. That community gave me so much, and ever since, I’ve been driven to give back and honor the place that helped me find my start.

What inspires you?

The kindness and compassion people extend to others continually inspires me.

In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?

I’m truly inspired by how Plymouth has turned compassion into action, creating lasting change in our community. Homelessness is one of the greatest challenges we face, yet Plymouth is confronting it with heart, purpose, and impact — transforming lives one person at a time. I deeply admire their dedication and the hope they bring to those who need it most.

Why should someone vote for you as a dancer?

I’ve always loved to dance, but somehow what looks amazing in my head turns into something entirely different once I hit the dance floor. I’ve tried copying others, binge-watching YouTube tutorials, and even braved a lesson or two — but rhythm and I have never quite been in sync. Hopefully, after months of training and determination with my coach, my feet will have finally caught the beat!

Where will you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?

My office.

When did you first become passionate about trying to make a difference in your community? What inspires you?

I grew up in a small town where I was a 4-Her which instilled a commitment to service at a young age. Being involved in your community is the truest form of citizenship, helping those in need and working together to build a community where everyone thrives.

In your opinion, why does Plymouth play an important role in ending homelessness in our region?

Plymouth is the largest provider of permanent supportive housing, which is an incredible resource for so many in our community. The Housing First approach is proven, and Plymouth is a leader in the sector.

Why should someone vote for you as a dancer?

I don’t like to talk (or write) about myself. I look forward to embarking on this journey which I hope will be a fun personal experience while helping to bring awareness and support to a critical community organization. I hope folks will laugh and enjoy the experience along with me, turning their enthusiasm into dollars that make a difference.

What do your friends and family think about you taking the stage in a dancing competition?!

Incredibly supportive. My colleagues are both surprised (it’s a unique opportunity) and very enthusiastic. I think they are thrilled I’m doing it, and they don’t have to.

Where will you keep your Mirror Ball Trophy if you win?

Funny, I haven’t even thought about it.