Edgar Masmela Awarded ‘Hero of the Deep’ at Kraken Game

This month, our very own Edgar Masmela, Chief Outreach and Engagement Officer at Friends of the Children-Seattle (Friends-Seattle), was recognized as a Hero of the Deep by the Seattle Kraken and One Roof Foundation.

Edgar has been a champion for youth in South Seattle for more than 20 years. He started with Friends-Seattle in the early 2000s, back when the organization had just two full-time staff members supporting 16 youth. Today, Friends-Seattle has grown to a team of 39, supporting over 150 youth and their families. His commitment to long-term professional mentorship has transformed lives and created lasting change. This honor recognizes Edgar’s dedication to advocating for youth and driving unity through community—all values that align with the award's mission of advancing resilience and uplifting the community.

To make this moment even more special, Friends-Seattle will receive a $32,000 grant from the Kraken Unity Fund to continue its mission of providing professional mentorship for 12+ years, no matter what. The Kraken Unity Fund was created by the Seattle Kraken and One Roof Foundation with funding from the team’s ownership group, led by Samantha Holloway.

“We are incredibly honored to see Edgar recognized for his decades of dedication,” said Lacie West-Wilder, Executive Director of Friends-Seattle. “This award is a testament to the power of long-term mentorship and how it creates lasting change in our communities. We are excited for the opportunities this grant will bring to help continue our 12+ year commitment to each youth and their family.” Thank you to the Seattle Kraken, One Roof Foundation, and everyone who makes our mission possible!