Driver's ED
/Did you know that Christian Friends of New Americans offers permit and driving classes? We currently have 50 students registered for these classes. They are not only from a variety of countries, including Afghanistan, Africa, India, and Nepal, but have various abilities. Many of our students are referred to our program by our partner agencies and their volunteers.
We offer a flexible program where students’ needs are met on an individual basis. Whether it is a person who has never driven before, has driven in their country but needs to learn our signs and rules, or someone who has lost a spouse and needs to learn to drive, we help them as best we can.
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Even though we offer driving and permit classes three times weekly, we are occasionally able to arrange additional driving times to help meet work schedules. For those able to come to the Peace Center, many attend our permit class and stay for driving instruction in hopes of obtaining their license. Our students have access to a car that is housed at the Peace Center, and an insured driving instructor provides instruction.
Many of our students express fear and are nervous when they start driving, but once they have the opportunity to drive, they feel more comfortable due to the guidance and knowledge of our volunteer instructors. Making students feel comfortable is important, and to see that big smile when they return from a driving lesson is wonderful.
Because of their urgent need for a driver’s license, Driver’s Ed frequently serves as a quick link to recently arrived refugee families. In other words, it often serve as a first step in establishing an open and trusting relationship with these families.
If serving as a Driver’s Ed volunteer is of interest to you, please contact Kelly at kteuscher@cfna-stl.org.
By Kelly Teuscher with Debbie McBride
