The following success story was submitted by SKILLS, Inc. regarding a participant in the Opportunities Driving School program. Dollars given to UWKV support this program as well as many others across Kennebec Valley.
Beth is a 21-year-old woman who has worked hard to learn life skills and gain independence while residing in a waiver home. While she sometimes finds building relationships challenging, she is outgoing, supportive of her housemates, and has a deep love for working with children. Despite her determination, Beth’s journey to full independence was met with significant barriers. Though she had hoped to earn her driver’s license in high school, she lacked the necessary support to do so. As an adult, the high cost of driver’s education became a financial hurdle she could not clear on her own.
Beth recognized that her lack of a license was more than just a personal missed milestone—it was a roadblock to her future. “Transportation for employment is a big barrier,” she explained, noting that most job applications specifically ask if a candidate has reliable transportation. Advocating for herself, Beth connected with the Opportunities Driving School. With the help of her support team, she accessed the program and immediately began to excel.
The transformation has been inspiring. Through the program’s curriculum, Beth demonstrated a strong grasp of driving rules and excelled in simulator training. Her success has provided her with the foundation and confidence needed to move toward her goal of becoming a licensed driver in Maine. More importantly, it has given her hope. Beth is now working toward her dream of employment in a daycare, a goal that was previously out of reach due to limited public transportation in rural Maine. Beth’s story highlights the vital importance of supportive, affordable programs that empower individuals with disabilities to overcome systemic barriers and unlock their full potential.
