Youth driving program in Nanaimo supported with $50,000 from RBC

A program to help youths in Nanaimo get their driver’s licences can rev up thanks to a $50,000 grant. Nanaimo Youth Services Association recently announced a $50,000 grant from RBC for its ‘L2N’ driving practice program. The program provides free one-on-one driving practice for youths who face barriers to getting their licence. L2N, delivered in partnership with Snuneymuxw First Nation, has already supported 165 people, with 116 earning a novice driver’s licence and 12 getting their learner’s licence. The program is proud of its 80-per cent pass rate which it says is well above the provincial average. “In a city like Nanaimo, a driver’s license is more than a piece of plastic, it’s a key to a future,” said Anthony Maki, director of the L2N program at NYSA, in a press release. Nicole Slater, RBC’s incoming regional vice-president for north Vancouver Island, said in the release staff at bank branches in Nanaimo see young people facing challenges every day. “The L2N program provides a direct, practical solution that helps youth build a better future for themselves right here in our community,” she said.