Tribe Social Belonging, through its community-focused program, is helping individuals clear a major roadblock to independence: obtaining their driver’s license.
Through the Tribe Drive program, volunteers mentor learner drivers to complete the 100 supervised hours needed for a provisional licence – a challenge for those without a car or instructor. So far, the program has helped 30 people move closer to independence.
Tribe Drive volunteer Amanda said everyone who has taken part in the program has had their future changed in some way.
“Giving people the opportunity to get their licence when it is beyond their reach could mean they can take their children to sports or gain employment,” Amanda said.
“It could mean they can get to appointments that previously took most of the day and required multiple forms of public transport. They can now visit relatives they couldn’t before. For some of our clients, this is the only thing standing in the way of a more positive life.”
Amanda said she’d seen first-hand how the program changes lives, from a young mum now able to drive her children to school and work extra hours, to a participant who gained entry to a dual degree in paramedicine and nursing after earning their manual licence, and a neurodivergent learner who, after practising for their test, realised they were more capable than they thought.
“This meant they could look for a job working with children living with neurodivergence, something they had always wanted to do,” she said. “Their licence also meant they could show potential employers that they could learn, be responsible, and pass tests. They were so excited about the future and were planning for a time when they would be members of their community and not isolated from it.”
How Volunteering Transforms Lives
Amanda said it felt “really special” to see participants gaining confidence and independence behind the wheel.
“It’s the realisation that you are changing their mindset, even if only in a small way,” she said. “They realise they can drive, get to work…and gain independence. They have dreams, and you are helping them achieve their dreams in some small way.”
She encouraged others to volunteer for Tribe Drive, describing it as “such a positive and affirming thing to do.”
“It just makes you feel good when a participant tells you what a difference you are making to their lives,” she said.
Volunteers need an open, friendly attitude, a current driver’s licence, and a little spare time each week. Vehicles, training and support are provided.
To learn more about Tribe Drive, call 0401 610 727 or email drive@tribebelonging.com.au
Read more stories from our Redcliffe Guide print magazine here:
- Reddy Roundup: Updates from the Community
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Podcast Review:Christmas Past
- New Netflix Christmas Classics
- Bookworm
- Brad’s Business Tips
- A Year Ends, and Purpose Begins
- Steam Through History on Christmas Twilight Train
- Jungle Perch Kuhlia rupestris
- Beach Safety Tips For Safe Summer Days Ahead
- A Christmas Whirlwind
- Pet Care with a Difference at The Exotics Vet
- The Way We Were: Christmas, Redcliffe 1960
- Deck the Halls with Festive Wreath Making
- Local Medium Connects Souls at Seaside Gallery Event
- Mousetrap Launches 2026 with Fun, Music and Mystery
- Roll Out the Red Carpet This New Year’s Eve
- Peninsula Pimpernel
- Pyjama Angels Making a Lasting Impact on Kids in Care
- Electric Light Orchestra Tribute Coming to Redcliffe
- Creative Activities Light Up School Holidays
