An Update from Our Interim Executive Director

Dear Friends-Seattle Community,

I am writing to share some updates as the new Interim Executive Director for Friends of the Children-Seattle during this time of transition. Our previous Executive Director, Lacie West-Wilder, and our Board President, Jerome Roaché, have both stepped down and we’d like to thank them for their vision and contributions in supporting the organization during their time with us.

Going into our 25th year, I want to take a moment to express deep gratitude for the commitment our community continues to make to youth and families in the Greater Seattle area. Our work is vital, and as I transition into this role, my top priority is ensuring the stability of Friends-Seattle, both financially and programmatically.

There is a lesson we teach youth in the program—learning and evolving is key in navigating an uncertain world. This is why we are leveraging lessons learned over the past 25 years to guide us in navigating change and preparing for our future. Our long-term success depends on being strategic, our funding being sustainable, and our program remaining strong. To support us during these transitions, and in strengthening our impact, Friends-Seattle founding board member, Sharon Maghie, is re-joining our Board of Directors. Additionally, Friends of the Children-National is supporting us in connecting to resources and best practices.

We carry a strong foundation to take on the many challenges ahead: federal grant freezes, a threatened Department of Education, and partner organizations across our region facing funding instability. With this, we are focused on doubling our efforts, deepening our partnerships, and leaning into community support. More youth than ever need the long-term support we can provide with professional, salaried mentors to stand by them as they pursue their goals. To make this happen, we need you—our supporters, partners, and advocates—to stand with us in this commitment for generational change.

Together, let’s step boldly and confidently as we commit to the future of the youth and families here in our neighborhoods—no matter what. We ask you to support us in the following ways:

• Invest in the Future of Our Community: Help us reach our goal of raising $12,000 in recognition of our 12+ year model by May 9, 2025, on our Facebook fundraiser. Please help spread far and wide across your network.
• Share Our Stories: We recently shared two powerful videos in celebration of our 25th anniversary. We ask you to please comment, like, and share these videos with your friends, community connections, and anyone who wants to learn more about how important our work is.