Talented Matt Grenier ‘had a blast’ at MAP

It’s a beautiful, sunny day in Manito Park and the Multi-Agency Adolescent Program is on a field trip. Students walk up to the Japanese Garden to take graduation pictures before heading for lunch at one of the picnic shelters by the playground.

Among the students is 19-year-old Matt Grenier, this year’s distinguished MAP graduate.

“I don’t know why they picked me,” Grenier said. “I mean, it feels pretty good and all that.”

Grenier has been at MAP, a program for high school students affected by mental disorders, for three years.

He doesn’t want to talk about life before MAP.

“I’ve been through a lot, you know, personal stuff,” Grenier said. “Things are much better now.”

At MAP he discovered that he really likes to sew when he took a class in quilt-making.

“We learned to sew all kinds of stuff: blankets, clothes and bags. I really liked that class,” Grenier said.

After graduation he’d like to attend the automotive program at Spokane Community College.

“I love working on cars – I do it any chance I get,” Grenier said.

He’s fixed the engine on a ’98 Bronco and replaced the driveline on a ’74 Ford pickup.

“I guess I really like working with my hands,” said Grenier. “I want to be a mechanic and I think the automotive program at SCC is the best in the state.”

Does he have a dream car?

“Yes, it’s a ’76 T-top Corvette with leather and a pearl paint job,” Grenier said. “It’s my uncle’s but he never drives it.”

While at MAP Grenier has landed a job as a courtesy clerk at Yoke’s.

“I’ve been there for almost a year, it’s a good job,” said Grenier, adding that he hopes to work more hours once school is out.

Grenier only has good things to say about his time at MAP.

“I’ve had a blast, I’ve had fun and made friends, it’s been great.”