A local team of non-profit organizations and citizens are working tirelessly to provide youth mentoring and role modeling to youth in the region.
Grimshaw director of Community Services Tracy Halerewich says she, Peace Regional RCMP Const. Arthur Sunday, and Peace River School Division’s Rhonda Freeman developed and organized Helping Empower our Youth Today and for the Future, an important youth initiative in the spring 2024. Their initiative has grown to welcome various speakers and bring in several community events to help empower youth.
In early December, the group will be welcoming Tamika Nurse to two different schools in the region. Nurse is a TSN basketball analyst who will be in Grimshaw and Peace River visiting schools on Dec. 3-4.
Nurse is also a former NCAA Division I athlete who played for University of Oregon and Bowling Green State University.
“It is our goal to have Tamika Nurse speak to Grades 7-12 students at Lloyd Garrison School, Grimshaw Public School, Holy Family School, along with Glenmary, TA Norris and Peace High schools,” says Halerewich.
“Tamika Nurse is an inspiring speaker who brings a powerful message about perseverance, leadership, and personal growth. Her background as an athlete, broadcaster, and mentor allows her to connect meaningfully with youth and encourage them to believe in themselves, set goals, and overcome challenges.”
Organizations bringing Nurse to the region agree her message aligns perfectly with its shared commitment to empowering and supporting young people in communities.
Halerewich says Nurse is a product of one of North America’s most accomplished sports families. Her father, Richard, played in the CFL, her mom, Cathy, was a McMaster University varsity basketball player, and her siblings include WNBA star Kia Nurse and NHL player and Edmonton Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse.
Halerewich explains the school presentations are for students only, but they are currently evaluating the schedule to see if some public presentations can be added for both communities. If they are able to add more events the details will be shared through local promotion closer to the event date.
“These presentations help youth see real-life examples of resilience and success,” says Halerewich.
“They encourage students to recognize their potential, make positive choices, and believe that their goals are achievable,” she adds.
“Investing in youth initiatives that provide mentoring opportunities is one of the most meaningful ways to build stronger, healthier, and more connected communities.”
Mentorship helps youth feel seen, supported, and valued, giving them access to positive role models who can guide, encourage, and inspire them.
“Through mentorship, young people gain confidence and develop a sense of purpose and belonging,” Halerewich explains.
“When communities invest in youth-focused programs, they’re not just supporting individuals, they’re strengthening the foundation for the next generation of leaders, workers, and citizens. It’s an investment that creates lasting social and emotional benefits for everyone.”
All presentations are a result of collaborative support from community partners including the Town of Grimshaw, Peace River School Division, Town of Peace River, Peace Regional RCMP, Avenge Energy Services, the M.D. of Peace No.135, and County of Northern Lights.
“Every speaker brings a unique story and perspective that can reach different students in different ways,” says Halerewich.
“By offering a variety of voices and experiences, we create opportunities for all youth to connect with a message that resonates with them personally. This variety also promotes inclusion, understanding, and broader life learning all part of our empowering our youth today and for the future.”
Empowering Our Youth Today and for the Future is an initiative aiming to help young people build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self-worth. She says by connecting youth with encouraging role models and motivational speakers, the program strives to nurture the next generation of leaders and create a community where every young person feels supported, valued, and capable of achieving their goals.
“Tamika’s presentations will be high-energy, engaging, and deeply relatable,” Halerewich says.
“She speaks honestly and in a way that connects with today’s youth. Students will leave feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to take on their goals with a new perspective.”
For more information on the event, call Grimshaw Community Services at (780) 332-1250.
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter