Creating a positive & empowering community in Toowoomba.
The role of a mentor is first and foremost supporting safe driving: role modelling it, speaking about it and helping a Waymaker practice the driving skills they have learnt through lessons with a professional Driving Instructor.
Part of this role is modelling respectful communication, patience, and clear boundaries. Volunteer Mentors have a strong ability to demonstrate empathy, consistency, reliability and promote safe and stable relationships.
Interested in supporting a Waymaker learn how to drive?
Becoming a Mentor.
After settling in Toowoomba, one of many barriers faced by Waymakers is acquiring the skill set and the opportunity to practise driving on the road.
The Learner Driver Mentor Program provides an opportunity for Waymakers to complete their required 100 hours on road driving experience that they may otherwise be unable to achieve. This program assists Waymakers who have significant barriers, language being one, to learn to drive.
Volunteer mentors are an integral and highly valued part of the Learner Driver Mentor Program. Mentors are supported every step of the way: from induction into the role, briefings on key parts of the role, and ongoing training and support once they get started as a volunteer.
We acknowledge teaching someone how to drive is a big responsibility. We want to reassure you that you will be provided with the necessary training and support throughout your journey as a volunteer in this program.
WHAT WILL I DO AS A MENTOR?
The Program Coordinator will provide training and guidance on the practical elements of the program. You will be supported to understand the graduated system of licensing in Queensland.
HOW IS A MENTOR DRIVER ROLE DIFFERENT TO A PROFESSIONAL DRIVING INSTRUCTOR?
You will learn how to communicate effectively and give feedback in a constructive fashion. The Program Coordinator will provide practical guidance around driver training instruction such as planning a driving route for each lesson, progress checklists (starting and stopping the vehicle, steering techniques, hazards, reverse parking), what you must do to be personally prepared.
HOW WILL YOU BE MATCHED WITH A LEARNER DRIVER?
The Learner Driver will undertake lessons with a professional driving instructor prior to being matched with you. The Coordinator will explain what the initial session in the vehicle will look like and what happens next.
DO I NEED TO USE MY OWN VEHICLE?
youBelong will provide the vehicle that will be used to deliver lessons. The Coordinator will explain processes around accessing and operating the vehicle.
HOW DO I KNOW IT IS SAFE TO GO ON THE ROAD WITH THE LEARNER DRIVER?
The Coordinator will run through all the steps you will need to ensure the safety of both yourself and the Learner.
WHAT IF THERE’S AN ACCIDENT?
The Program Coordinator will tell you what to do in case an accident occurs during a driving session: what to do at the scene and who to call. Both you and the Learner Driver are covered by insurance paid for by youBelong.