RIDE Students on the Path to Independence

This summer, our new RIDE program is helping immigrants and refugees gain the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the road and open doors to new opportunities. We just wrapped up the fourth week of class, and our students have already made incredible progress.

Our group includes participants from Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Jamaica, most of whom have been in the United States for less than a year. Many shared that one of the first questions on nearly every job application is: “Do you have a driver’s license?” For them, learning about driving is not just about getting behind the wheel. It is about gaining independence, increasing their confidence, and opening doors to steady work with better pay and hours.

In class, students focus on understanding key driving concepts such as traffic signs, rules of the road, and safe navigation through intersections. This week, for example, we covered strategies for navigating intersections, helping students develop the knowledge and instincts needed to feel confident once they are behind the wheel. Lessons combine discussions, visuals, and real-world scenarios, giving students a solid foundation before they take their written driver's exam.

Beyond learning the rules of the road, the RIDE program provides a supportive space where participants can ask questions, share experiences, and encourage one another. Students celebrate each milestone together, from mastering tricky traffic concepts to gaining a deeper understanding of driving culture in the U.S.

By learning the concepts and building confidence in a safe environment, participants take important steps toward achieving independence and pursuing jobs that provide stability and growth. Every lesson learned in class brings them closer to their goals, giving them the tools and confidence they need to create a brighter future for themselves and their families.