New program recruits youth to be safe-driving advocates

November 28, 2018 5:08 pm

19 years ago, Rebecca Bowman was riding in a car with her mother and best friend when they were hit by a drunk driver. She survived, but her mom and friend did not.

Bowman, now Rebecca White, says, “From that crash I learned the importance of prevention through MADD Rhode Island and I’ve continued that effort. It helped me as a high school student give me the confidence to stand up and believe in what I believe in.”

Most recently, she’s linked up with the Rhode Island Police Chiefs’ Association, and from there, YOUTH FORCE was born.

“It’s important for youth to have the support necessary to combat these issues they’re faced with on a daily basis, and to start implementing new routines and not getting behind the wheel and texting or getting behind the wheel impaired,” she says.

As Program Director, White will recruit high school students from across the state tasked with devising safe-driving action plans to bring back to their classmates.

“I know there are many kids and students throughout Rhode Island that want to get involved with a program like this. You could be on the football team or chess club it doesn’t matter.”

YOUTH FORCE will send out applications to local high schools beginning in January. The first educational summit will take place in August 2019 at Roger Williams University. Learn more on their website: https://www.ripolicechiefs.org/youthforce.