2 May 2019

Driver mentors needed for life changing Eurobodalla youth program

| Ian Campbell
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Eurobodalla Council’s Ydrive program needs more mentors. Photo: ESC

Eurobodalla Council’s Ydrive program needs more mentors. Photo: ESC

Calling all experienced drivers! Eurobodalla Shire Council’s Ydrive program needs mentors to help disadvantaged local youth get mobile and change their life.

The results of the learn-to-drive program speak for themselves and point to the future potential.

Council’s Ydrive Coordinator Angie McMillan says all eight graduates who have gained their licence now had a job.

“We’ve got spots to help seven more learner drivers, but we’re short of volunteers to meet demand,” she says.

Mentors need to be able to commit to at least two hours each week during the 12-month program. Ms McMillan says volunteers had found the experience rewarding.

“It’s not surprising our mentors develop such a positive relationship with their learners, they’re assisting young people who would not otherwise have access to a car or supervising driver to gain the required 120 hours needed to qualify for their Ps,” she explains.

“We supply the car and the training for mentors. We make sure our learners receive professional driving lessons and attend a safety driving course.

“It’s such a practical, results-driven program, and it’s attracted attention for other councils and praise from the Roads and Maritime Services staff.”

“We supply the car and the training for mentors" - Angie McMilan. Photo: ESC.

“We supply the car and the training for mentors” – Angie McMillan. Photo: ESC.

Ms McMilllan says a recent grant from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet has enabled the program to provide Ydrive participants with safety kits.

“As each learner completes the Ycheck safety module, they receive a kit with reflective breakdown triangles, a torch, and first aid kit.”

For more information or to sign up visit the Ydrive page on Eurobodalla Council’s website, or contact Angie McMillan on 0417 359 705, 4474 7456 or email [email protected]

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