The Salvation Army is calling out for driving mentors

The freedom and independence of driving is something most of us take for granted, but many young people struggle to get their licence if they don’t have access to a supervising driver or vehicle.

Not having a driver’s licence can limit a young person’s goals for work, study, and housing, so the Salvation Army is making learning to drive more equitable through its Drive for Life TAC L2P program in the City of Melbourne.

The inclusive program is funded by TAC and matches learner drivers aged 16 to 21 with volunteer mentors who can help them achieve their licence and reach their full potential.

Stephen Harvy, program manager (and volunteer mentor), is seeking new mentors to help more young people achieve their licence, and their dreams. 

“We take family for granted. Not everyone is able to ask mum or dad to take them out in the car. Volunteers power the Drive for Life TAC L2P program,” Mr Harvy said.

“Some young people really don’t have any other way to get their licence and it’s a really big thing in their lives if you can help them achieve that goal. If you have some spare time, becoming a Drive for Life TAC L2P program mentor is a really worthwhile and rewarding way to spend it.” 

“We welcomed and provided training for our latest intake of volunteers in December readying them for matching with learner drivers in the year ahead but are always seeking to attract and recruit more volunteer mentors.”

To be eligible, you need a current unrestricted driver’s licence, maturity to bring to a mentoring relationship with a young person, a desire to improve road safety, and just two hours per fortnight or month.

Learners must be aged 16 to 21, with a current learner’s permit, and without access to a vehicle, a supervising driver, or both.

To apply to be a mentor or learner, visit salvationarmy.org.au/driveforlife, phone 0477 408 533, or email [email protected] •