SCNSC Wins $25,000 for Driver Ed for Low-Income & Foster Youth

September 25, 2018—Thanks to the support of citizens and community organizations, the Southeastern Chapter—National Safety Council (SCNSC) won $25,000 from the State Farm Neighborhood Assist® online voting competition. Out of 2,000 national applications, SCNSC’s program placed in the top 40!

The $25,000 grant will provide at least 100 low-income and foster care students FREE driver’s training, so they can receive a license and pursue their first job, internships, and other after-school activities that will help them become successful young adults. SCNSC is partnering with local Midlands organizations that work directly with low-income and foster teens to direct the funds where they are needed most.

“We are truly honored to receive this grant,” said Jody Jernigan, SCNSC CEO. “Earning a driver’s license is a right-of-passage for most teens, but the cost of driver’s education can be a significant barrier for some. Thanks to State Farm, we can help the teens who need this training in our community receive their license and prepare them to become responsible drivers.”

The National Safety Council Driving Academy, the only nonprofit driver’s education program in the state, teaches the required 8-hours of classroom training and 6-hours of behind-the-wheel training. SCNSC instructors are current or retired law enforcement officers with a passion for educating young adults. At the end of the course, each student will take the SCDMV road test to receive their driver’s license.

“This is State Farm’s fifth year hosting the Neighborhood Assist competition, and we are thrilled to have a winner in the Midlands,” said Larry Lucas, State Farm Agent and SCNSC Board President. “Driver’s education is important to us, and we know the Southeastern Chapter – National Safety Council will make a difference in the lives of South Carolina teens.” SCNSC will launch the program this fall and train eligible students throughout 2018-19.