The Good Friend – El Buen Amigo: SANTIAGO MASFERRER

December 18, 2023 Buffalo Latino Village

For the final issue of the year, I wanted to spotlight an individual who has a business that we all can get behind and support for the holiday season, a business connected to an organization that helps the Latin American community – and we found the perfect one!

So as the title of the article might have clued some of you, I’m going to place the spotlight on Santiago F. Masferrer, founder and executive director of El Buen Amigo/Latin American Cultural Association (LACA), and a long-time community activist.

Mr. & Mrs. Masferrer

I met Santiago many years ago. I was living in Tonawanda at the time, but I believe I learned of his organization and had the pleasure of meeting him during Buffalo’s Elmwood Arts Festival.

So if you’ve been lucky and been to the place, you already know it is much more than just an organization. It is a place to shop for Latin Arts and Culture. AND YOU STILL CAN SHOP – while supporting this nonprofit organization (Latin American Cultural Association), involved in education and culture in the Buffalo community while supporting Latino artists from other countries.

I remember the first time I visited El Buen Amigo. I felt “The Good Friend Energy” as soon as I stepped in the doorway. It was like I had teleported to a time when I could still be with my Abuelo y abuela.

The place was arranged by regional area at the time. So you might have a section where traditional Mexican items occupy a space. You will also see an area where you can purchase Brazilian or other areas with items unique to the culture!

You could get a sense of the similarities of items based on the area it was acquired from. And you can see where some areas of Central and South America and The Caribbean have influence in other areas of the world!

Santiago has operated and managed El Buen Amigo for over 30 plus years. Prior to El Buen Amigo, Santiago was a member of PODER and PRCC, and he worked as a Correctional Officer at Attica where he went out of his way to be of help to the inmates, especially introducing them to their culture and education.

El Buen Amigo was established by LACA to help promote and market a fair-trade price for authentic items crafted in many Latin American and Caribbean countries. When you shop there for your Holiday Gifts and future gift-giving times – for your entire family – you’ll be assured that much of the proceeds go directly back to the artists and artisans who created them – many by hand! Many will not have an identical pair. Leaving you with the awesomeness of buying and gifting the most unique items to everyone you know!

Shopping at El Buen Amigo this season and beyond, helps to continue the effort of teaching Spanish to the non-Spanish speaker. As well as, availing Santiago, go and others that work/volunteer the ability to professionally translate for other people, organizations, and companies!

Santiago is a loving husband, adored father and Abuelo! He is one of the most beautiful people I know in Buffalo! He has dedicated many years to the Elmwood Village area. Any time you see him you can be sure your conversations will be eye-opening!

If you want to know more about Santiago Masferrer and El Buen Amigo, visit them at 144 Elmwood Avenue, right off Allan Street. You will walk out knowing that LACA gives a beautiful, cultural face to Buffalo’s city of good neighbors, including yours as you walk out the place with a satisfying smile.

Enjoy the season with family and friends and have a Prosperous 2024!