GRAFTON PINEIRO
Founder and Chair
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Grafton's career commenced in the agricultural sector in Barbados, where he first encountered individuals at risk, engaging in problematic alcohol consumption without recognizing its profound effects. His venture into social work began in 1974 at Toronto Western Hospital's Detoxification Centre, coinciding with his pursuit of a Bachelor of Education Degree with a major in Special Education at the University of Toronto.
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During the span from 1977 to 1991, Grafton dedicated himself to St. Michael's detoxification centre, overseeing the Anchor Person Project, a support initiative for skid row men in Toronto. In 1986, he initiated Substance Abuse Counselling Training for the Alcohol and Drug Recovery Association, now recognized as L.E.A.D. (Learning Experience in Addiction Development).
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Notably, from 1994 to 1996, Grafton served on the Advisory Committee of the Ontario Ministry of Health (Addiction and Mental Health Branch), contributing his expertise to the advancement of addiction and mental health initiatives.
RICHARD BANNIGAN
Director
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Richard Bannigan is a dedicated educator with 15 years of experience in teaching, counseling, and administration across three Ontario colleges and a university. With a Master's degree in Higher Education from OISE/HEG, he has developed over 30 courses spanning seven programs. Richard has played an important role as an Academic Counsellor, providing support to more than 500 college students. Additionally, he has enriched his expertise through participation in CASE Summer Institutes in Institutional Communications at Notre Dame
KENNY GBADEBO
Director
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Kenny Gbadebo is a teacher, an advocate, public educator and a certified addiction counsellor. Kenny Gbadebo has been a sessional instructor at St Clair College in Windsor since 1986. He has taught for various universities and colleges, including University of Windsor, Wilfrid Laurier University of Kitchener, Ontario; Wayne State University Detroit, Michigan; Trios and Everest College in Windsor.
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As founder of two non-profit organizations in Windsor, Kenny has conducted extensive research on youth issues, education and addictions. In 1944/95, he conducted a study on problems and issues prevalent among visible minority youth in Windsor and Essex County. In 2006, he received Social Justice Person of the Year Award from the University of Windsor’s Social Justice Department. In 2004, he also received the champion of Black Excellence Award from the North American Black Historical Museum. In 2007, he was nominated for the 2007 Today’s parent FOR KID’S SAKE Award. From 2005 to present he has been the president for the Spelling Bee of Canada Windsor Chapter helping children to learn and develop academically.
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Kenny received his M.Ed. in education and counselling and M.A. in sociology on criminology and race relations from the University of Windsor. He also received certificates on various youth issues, addictions and human relations. Kenny Gbadebo is the past President of the African Community Organization of Windsor and Nigerian Canadian Organization Windsor. Presently he is the Executive Director of Youth Connection Association for Academic Excellence Inc.
TERRI-LYNN WOODS
Director
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Terri-Lynn Woods holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a specialization in psychology and human development, and is a designated Project Management Professional (PMP). Acknowledging the significance of a holistic perspective, she has expanded her education and training to encompass both traditional and holistic healing programs, earning certification as an instructor in various modalities.
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Terri-Lynn brings valuable experience in developing project strategies, assessing effectiveness, and estimating costs for clinic programs. Additionally, she is skilled in developing and delivering course curricula that offer students informative and interactive learning experiences.
Terri-Lynn has an understanding of the unique challenges and barriers faced by underrepresented communities. Her commitment lies in promoting inclusivity and holistic well-being through her diverse approach to education and healing modalities.
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