The Ballarat Foundation is calling for compassionate community members to become volunteer mentor drivers to help meet demand for its L2P Learner Driver Mentor Program.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Around 20 young people are currently on the waiting list for the program that gives those without access to a car or a supervising driver the opportunity to learn to drive.
Eligible learner drivers aged 16 to 21 years are matched with fully licensed volunteer mentor drivers to accumulate the requisite 120 hours of practice.
Ballarat Foundation chief executive Matt Jenkins said the program was aiming to increase the number of volunteer mentor drivers from 70 to 100 this year, to allow the number of learners to increase to 100.
To many learner drivers in the L2P program, the driving sessions are also a lesson in life experience, especially for those that have limited personal support around them.
- Stuart Bell, volunteer mentor
He said the Ballarat Foundation was also working to secure funding to expand the fleet of cars from five to seven.
"Demand for the L2P program continues to grow at a rapid rate, and without enough volunteer mentor drivers, we're simply unable to meet the demand," he said.
"Obtaining a licence is a hugely important milestone for young people and is especially important for these young people who are trying to establish themselves in life while facing significant disadvantage."
Volunteer mentor Stuart Bell said he joined the program with a desire to see people given an opportunity to make positive developments in their lives.
"To many learner drivers in the L2P program, the driving sessions are also a lesson in life experience, especially for those that have limited personal support around them," he said.
"It is remarkable to witness a learner driver complete their licence test and obtain a probationary licence. This is a sensational shared moment."
Mr Bell said the mentor role was also a way to help others, while enjoying a challenge and learning new skills.
Fourty eight young people gained their licence through the L2P program in Ballarat last year.
You can register your interest by contacting the Ballarat Foundation on 5331 5555 or email l2p@ballaratfoundation.org.au.
Have you signed up to The Courier's variety of news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in Ballarat.
Rochelle Kirkham
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
