We would like to thank Andre Fowlkes, and the entire Startco team for leading us through the Ford Urbanite Mobility of Memphis grant process.  We intend to use the proceeds of the grant to rekindle hope, dignity, and confidence in our community of displaced individuals who are in danger of falling through the cracks and, thus, missing out on vital services which they are rightfully entitled to as legal members of our community. Over the past fifteen years, we have found that our clients feel they have no voice and, thus, are unable to avail themselves of these services because 1) they do not “Know Their Rights” and 2) do not know how to advocate for themselves.  Your generous grant will help us give voices to the voiceless who have silently struggled to navigate complicated systems that were un-intendedly designed in a way that silenced them, stifled their confidence, took advantage of their vulnerabilities, and kept them frustrated and stuck.  

Classroom In a Car — Handle With Care

Ford Motor Company has a long history of focusing on the safety of its passengers, “precious cargo” was how they were designated in ad-speak. This initiative has evolved from internal safety matters like seatbelts, car seats, etc., to external concerns like rear camera back-up cameras for those who “don’t always look out for themselves.”  Our “Classroom in a Car”  initiative is  actually an extension of that motif because dealing with our clients on a daily basis we discovered that we were dealing with people “who didn’t always know how to look out for themselves.”  Many did not know the language, where they were going, if they would be welcomed there, and a variety of other basics that we as residents take for granted.  “Classroom in a Car” is exactly what it sounds like. We introduced the idea because of 1) our client’s lack of familiarity with U.S. customs, culture, language and all the services lack of knowledge in those areas negate for them, and 2) the average car journey was 30 minutes, we already had a captive audience, so we thought, let’s us enhance the driving experienced by using the time to help our passengers on their integration trip, while on their car ride, into feeling comfortable and thriving in the U.S. 

We currently have two drivers who provide this service.  The drivers, who we put through a rigorous training process, were selected for their empathy and ability to communicate, teach, and allay the fears of their passengers.  In reality and real time our drivers are not only transporting our clients, they are providing interpretation, education, advocacy, and a friendly face.  We are already seeing people begin to thrive in their new jobs, homes, schools, and even giving back to the Memphis community.  Unfortunately, we have only two drivers servicing over 700 clients. Our goal is to not only add 4-6 more drivers, but also to expand the number of revives we currently offer in the car. 

Again, thank you so much for helping us “handle with care” the precious cargo of lawfully present newcomers who are working hard to start their lives anew after having fled for their lives.

Their “journey has just begun” on the road into integrating into our community and country.  We see our drivers not only as drivers, but also as leaders, teachers, and shining examples of the power and potential “Knowing you Rights.”   

Additional Articles of Interest:

Ford Driver Training