Heather Latter
Tyson Grinsell has a passion for helping kids and has volunteered in many capacities over the past five years, including tutoring students in math and coaching youth soccer.
And last week, the 22-year-old Fort Frances resident was recognized provincially for his efforts, receiving the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers—the highest honour a young person can achieve for their volunteerism contributions.
“I was really happy. It’s been a really exciting time,” he enthused.
Grinsell travelled with his dad to Toronto, where he was presented the medal by Ontario Lt.-Gov. David C. Onley at a Queen’s Park ceremony April 22 as part of National Volunteer Week (April 21-27).
Citizenship and Immigration minister Michael Coteau also participated in the ceremony.
Grinsell, among nine who received the medal this year, is the only individual from Rainy River District to earn the award since its inception in 1998.
It is awarded to youth aged 15-24 who have donated their time and talents to a charity, a not-for-profit organization, or to inspiring other young people.
“It was really nice because they had a live-stream of the ceremony, so my mom, family, and friends could share in the moment,” Grinsell noted.
Staff at NCDS, where he has worked, and the Grade 8 class at Robert Moore School, where he was doing his teaching placement, also watched.
“He deserves it,” said eighth-grader Jarrod Ball. “He truly earned it.”
Grinsell started tutoring Grade 9 students in math on a volunteer basis in 2009, utilizing space at NCDS after school.
Since he’s been attending Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Grinsell has returned each summer to continue his volunteer tutoring service.
In fact, with his teaching placement having wrapped up last week, he began tutoring again this past Monday.
“I like math,” he remarked. “And I want to be a teacher, so it is good experience and practice.
“It is also nice to be able to make a difference when kids need help.”
Meanwhile, having always played soccer as a youth, coaching was something Grinsell always enjoys volunteering for.
“My dad coached, so I started coaching with him in high school,” he explained, saying he eventually started coaching on his own.
He is set to coach Division 5 when Fort Frances Youth Soccer starts up here again next week.
“It’s just something I really enjoy,” he said.
And while attending university, Grinsell continues his volunteer efforts in Thunder Bay, participating in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program as an in-school mentor, becoming part of the “Best Buddies” program there, and assisting at a local food bank.
He also helps foster kids with reading through a partnership between Lakehead University and the Children’s Aid Society.
“I really enjoy working with kids,” he enthused. “I like setting a positive example and making a difference.”
Grinsell was nominated for the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers by Marah Trivers of NCDS.
“I just want to thank Marah, the staff at NCDS, and everyone who wrote letters to support the nomination,” he said.
“They have been really supportive.
“I enjoy giving back to the community,” he added. “I know the time I have spent is appreciated, and it’s been an honour to represent our community and Northwestern Ontario.”
“But I don’t do it for the recognition,” Grinsell stressed. “Volunteering is something I have always done and will continue to do.”
Grinsell hopes to further his passion of working with kids by landing a teaching job here in Rainy River District.
