Singleton's Community Drug Action Team (CDAT) has been recognised at an awards ceremony in Sydney, for its strong efforts in collaborating with others to roll out the DRIVE program.
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The Community Drug Action Team was presented with the Partnership Project Award at the Alcohol and Drug Foundation's Community Drug Action Team Awards on Monday night (24th February).
In an effort to boost employment opportunities, access to education and social connectedness, the DRIVE program supports young people to obtain a driver's license.
The program is delivered in partnership with Singleton Community Drug Action Team, local businesses, government agencies and non-government service providers in Singleton.
"This award is due recognition for all of the CDAT members who have been involved in DRIVE, a truly life-changing program for young people who for one reason or another don't have access to a car or someone who can help them learn to drive," Singleton Council's Acting Director Organisation and Community Capacity Deborah McDonald said.
"We know that transport is an issue for young people in Singleton, whether it's public transport services or being able to drive themselves.
"The DRIVE program is a tangible way the community can work together to support young people aged between 16 and 25 to get the practical experience they need to get a licence.
"Best of all, it opens up a world of opportunities for people who can then apply for jobs that require a licence, or take advantage of so many more opportunities because of the freedom that comes with transport."
The DRIVE Program has so far helped multiple young people in Singleton obtain provisional licenses and attend the Safer Driver Course. More than 15 community members have also been officially trained in supervising learner drivers.
Alcohol and Drug Foundation NSW State Manager, Lorenzo Woodford commended Singleton Community Drug Action Team on its community-led action.
"A huge congratulations to Singleton Community Drug Action Team. It should feel incredibly proud of its efforts in helping to build a healthy and connected community," said Alcohol and Drug Foundation NSW Manager, Lorenzo Woodford.
The award ceremony was held on the first evening of the 2020 Community Drug Action Team Conference at the University of Technology Sydney. The conference united Community Drug Action Teams from right across New South Wales to network and develop their alcohol and other drug prevention strategies.
New South Wales is home to 71 Community Drug Action Teams, which are groups of passionate volunteers leading alcohol and other drug harm prevention projects, aiming to build strong and connected communities.
"Community Drug Action Teams help their own communities make grassroots changes which promote healthy lifestyles and reduce the risk of harm from alcohol and other drugs," Mr Woodford said.
The NSW Government's Community Engagement Action Program (CEAP) is managed by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation. The program oversees the coordination and operation of Community Drug Action Teams (CDATs).
For more information about Community Drug Action Teams, please go to www.adf.org.au/cdat
