At a Plymouth building in Seattle, Plymouth case manager Nita Martinez partners with residents to help them navigate challenges, maintain housing stability, and work toward goals that matter to them – like improving their health, strengthening relationships, and pursuing recovery. 

“I truly love working here and growing each day,” she said. 

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we spoke with Nita about her family’s roots, the traditions that keep her connected to her culture, and what motivates her work with residents every day. 

Where it all began

Born in Seattle and raised in Burien, Nita comes from a Mexican family. Her great-grandmother immigrated from Monterrey, Mexico, and built a life in Washington while learning English and adapting to life in a new country. Along the way, she passed her culture and Spanish language down through the generations. 

Today, the traditions Nita grew up with remain an important part of her life – from beloved foods like tamales and homemade flan, to music and dance like bachata, cumbia, merengue, reggaeton, and corridos. 

 

“I love sharing my culture with others through the food, music, dances, and language.” 

That same appreciation for community is reflected in the work Nita does every day alongside Plymouth residents. 

“I did it. I finally have a home.” 

One resident’s arrival at Plymouth remains especially memorable. This resident had spent four years living on the street. Nita had crossed paths with her periodically and knew how long she had been working toward stable housing. 

Then one day, she arrived to see the apartment that would finally be hers. It was in the Plymouth building where Nita worked. 

“When she saw me, she said, ‘I did it. I finally have a home,'” Nita recalled. “On move in day, she had the biggest smile on her face.” 

For Nita, the moment was a powerful reminder of why Plymouth’s mission matters. “It showed that Plymouth can change someone’s life,” she said. “This is her home, and now I get to support her through her journey here.”

Advocating for residents and housing  

Nita’s commitment to residents extends beyond the building where she works. She has also participated in the annual Housing and Homelessness Advocacy Day in Olympia, joining residents and advocates in speaking with lawmakers about the importance of housing and supportive services.  

Her experiences have reinforced what she wishes more people understood about Plymouth residents. 

“They all have different stories,” she said. “Not all residents are the same.” 

Nita believes that coming together and using our voice for the people we serve makes our community stronger.  

“Some residents never had a person advocate for them before,” she said. “Having someone who can be an ally makes all the difference in the world.”