In a significant move to empower low-income youth in Texas, the Trucking Cares Foundation (TCF) has pledged $25,000 to the South Dallas Driving Academy. This non-profit is renowned for offering complimentary driver education to teens and young adults who face financial constraints.
Empowering Future Truckers
Phil Byrd, the chairman of TCF, expressed his admiration for the Academy’s impact, stating, “The South Dallas Driving Academy has been instrumental in removing roadblocks to rewarding careers in trucking. Providing young Texans with the tools they need to succeed empowers them to break the cycle of poverty and build a bright future for themselves and their families. This organization has grown exponentially in such a short time. It is truly amazing to witness. The Trucking Cares Foundation is proud to continue our support of this transformative program that invests in the next generation of our industry.”
A Legacy of Support
This recent donation builds on TCF’s history of backing SDDA. Initially, TCF contributed $15,000 in 2021 to help launch the program, followed by an additional $20,000 in 2023, showcasing its unwavering commitment to the Academy’s success.
Chris Petersen, vice president of Rally Fleet Services and chair of SDDA, remarked, “When so much of our energy at the South Dallas Driving Academy is focused on helping young men and women overcome seemingly insurmountable barriers entering our industry, the continued support of ATA leadership and the Trucking Cares Foundation is incredibly encouraging. I will always remember ATA Chairman Andrew Boyle’s emphatic endorsement of our vision when we first presented the concept just over three years ago. Shortly thereafter, TCF began its support of our program. Thanks in large part to TCF’s support, SDDA has expanded from a 7-student pilot program to one that has graduated 110 Class C and 5 Class A drivers in the past 14 months. TCF’s ongoing sponsorship will ensure that we can continue providing these crucial life credentials so we can help fill the pipeline of the next generation of trucking professionals.”
Breaking Barriers with Education
The press release highlights a stark reality—almost 40% of low-income individuals in urban U.S. areas, and nearly half in South Dallas, lack a valid driver’s license due to the scarcity of affordable driver education. The South Dallas Driving Academy offers a unique dual-pathway program, enabling South Dallas residents to earn their driver’s licenses and prepare for a career in transportation. This trailblazing initiative, exclusive to Bonton and South Dallas residents, boasts an impressive 90% course completion and graduation rate.
Von Minor, president & executive director of SDDA, emphasized the significance of TCF’s contribution, saying, “Because of the continuing support of the Trucking Cares Foundation, the SDDA is able to provide the tuition and scholarships that are required for men and women to matriculate through our quarterly Class A/CDL Commercial License Program and launch career pathways into the trucking industry. What was once a barrier has become an economic pathway.”
Source: The Trucker
