An initiative of Uniting, the 120 Countdown Program helps people who would otherwise find it very hard to get their driver’s licence to learn to drive, and they’re looking for volunteer mentors!
Listen to Rossco’s interview with Paul Steward from 120 Countdown or scroll down to read more.
Do you remember that very first drive on your own once you got your driver’s licence? The amazing feeling, you’ve gained a newfound independence – you can go anywhere! But this is not the case for everyone. some people in the community find it very hard to get their driver’s licence. They may not have someone in their life able to teach them, don’t have access to a car, or are unable to afford lessons. This is where Uniting’s 120 Countdown Program steps in.
Learners are matched with volunteer mentors who support them by providing regular driving practice and safety mentoring until they have 120 hours of driving experience. Getting their licence could be the start of a ripple effect that changes their life by giving them more independence and confidence. Having a driver’s licence in seen as an advantage for many jobs that suddenly become options for someone who may have had trouble finding work previously.
By the time the full 120 hours have been reached, the volunteer mentors have done much more than teach a learner to drive, they’ve provided consistency, support and often the boost in self-esteem a learner needs.
Volunteers receive training and use the Uniting car to take drivers for their lessons. Uniting take care of all the overheads and insurance. All you need is a full driver’s licence, a couple of hours free each week and a willingness to invest the time to make a difference in a person’s life.
Thanks to the success of the program, Uniting are getting a new car to service the Mt Druitt area, which means they can take on twice the number of learners – so long as they have the volunteers to support them.
If you are interested in Volunteering, you can call 1800 846 864 or email psteward@uniting.org
