Tyler Friesen is a father of three — but a father figure to many more as the director of Youth for Christ (YFC) Carman.
The Friesen family — Tyler, Jessica, Judah (4), Sarah (8) and Titus (6) — enjoys spending time together outdoors near their home in Carman
At his home near Carman, he and his wife, Jessica, care for their eight-year-old daughter, Sarah, six-year-old son, Titus, and four-year-old son, Judah. To Friesen, being a dad means growth — for both his children and himself.
“(Kids) keep you on your toes and probably teach you things about life — or yourself — almost as often as you teach them something,” he said.
Friesen enjoys spending time outside with his family. Together, they go swimming, biking, camping, tobogganing — or simply relax outdoors. He said the perfect Father’s Day would include an afternoon on a boat.
“But as long as it’s a relaxing day spent with my family — that’s all I need,” he added.
Although his kids are still young, Friesen said they already help out immensely around the house. Sarah takes on a leadership role by entertaining her brothers and preparing their lunch and snacks. Judah and Titus, meanwhile, are aspiring handymen who enjoy helping their dad with home projects.
“I’m hoping I’m instilling a healthy work ethic in them as these things happen,” Friesen said.
He said he’s learned a lot about himself since becoming a dad, but one thing has always been clear — his passion for working with children. That passion, along with what he calls help from the Holy Spirit, led him to his current role with YFC Carman.
In his career, Friesen said he strives to be Jesus’ hands and feet, spreading kindness and love to the youth he works with.
“Because Jesus loves me, I get to love others and try to make others’ lives — and my community as a whole — a better place.”
Friesen said the students he serves motivate him every day, and their willingness to explore their faith helps him thrive in his work. He cares for his students like they are his own, and feels inspired to make a lasting impact in their lives.
While his own children are still too young for YFC programming, Friesen said he looks forward to the day they can participate.
One of the highlights of his career, he said, was seeing his longtime dream of expanding the YFC drop-in centre come to life in 2023. He also credited his parents for inspiring his approach to fatherhood and service.
“My parents showed us how to love and care for a family and create an atmosphere of fun and safety in our home,” he said. “They gave us an example of serving our church and community, being generous with their time, and making their town a better place.”
