Born and raised on the Westside of Chicago, Tarvies D.Smith, Sr. had to learn endurance and perseverance after the death of his parents as a pre-teen. As a result of the lack of parental guidance, structure, vision and personal accountability; Tarvies became angry, frustrated and unmotivated regarding his future. Tarvies attended middle school at J. Sterling Morton Elementary and later attend John
Marshall Metro High School. While attending Marshall, Tarvies began to make change for the better. His aunt received him into her home and provided emotional and mental stability. The love, support and encouragement that was provided by his aunt helped to propel and foster a winning attitude that manifested into the following academic achievements: Top 5% of his graduating senior class, Member of National Honor Society, Member of John Hope Franklin Club, Principal Scholars Program, Recipient of the late Mayor Harold Washington Mercantile Exchange Scholarship Award, Homecoming King and many other academic and personal accomplishments. After graduating from high school, Tarvies attended Eastern Illinois University (EIU). While attending EIU, Tarvies became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and completed his Bachelors Degree in Psychology. Tarvies simultaneous obtained his Masters Degree in Political Science /Public Administration while working for Eastern Student Housing Department as a Hall Counselor. However, the single most significant personal accomplishment for Tarvies was receiving Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. Tarvies received his call into the ministry and completed his ministerial training at Living Word Christian Center where Tarvies is a current member under the leadership of Dr. Bill Winston. Tarvies later obtained his second Masters Degree from Concordia University and is now a professional licensed school counselor. Tarvies' professional work experience includes the following: Supervisory, Program-Management, Social Worker with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Prevention Specialist, Youth Development Specialist, Motivational Speakers, Author, Mentor, and Professional School Counselor. Tarvies is the President & CEO of Teen-Train, Inc. which is a Not-For Profit Organization with emphasis on the following services: Academic Enrichment, Career Education, Mentoring Services, Youth & Leadership Development. Tarvies has membership in the following professional/national organizations:
-American School Counselor Association (ASCA)
-Illinois Counseling Association (ICA)
-Illinois Mental Health Counseling Association (IMHCA)
Tarvies is the proud father of 2 sons, Tarvies Jr. and Timothy Smith.
