Graham’s Story: How Volunteering with L2P Changes Lives
June 24, 2025
For Graham May, becoming a volunteer mentor with the Ballarat Foundation’s L2P Program has been one of the most rewarding decisions of his life.
For Graham May, becoming a volunteer mentor with the Ballarat Foundation’s L2P Program has been one of the most rewarding decisions of his life.
Three and a half years ago, Graham first heard about the program during a footy match on television. At the time, he was exploring different volunteering options and wanted something that offered flexibility, connection with young people and the chance to make a real difference. L2P ticked all the boxes.
"I chose this program because it gave me the opportunity to be flexible with my commitment while engaging with younger people and helping them to become safe, confident drivers," Graham said. "It was a way to hopefully help reduce the road toll as well."
Since then, Graham has mentored six young learner drivers, helping three of them successfully achieve their provisional licences. Every learner in Victoria is required to complete 120 hours of supervised driving before sitting their driving test. Mentors like Graham are not professional instructors, but they play a vital role in developing young drivers’ skills, building their confidence and setting them on the path to safe and independent driving.
Importantly, L2P also gives young participants the chance to connect with positive role models, boosting their confidence both behind the wheel and in life more broadly.
One of Graham’s proudest moments came recently when his student driver Amee earned her provisional licence. When Amee joined the program, she had just 30 hours of driving experience. Over the next eight months, she and Graham clocked up more than 80 hours together on the road.
Reflecting on her experience, Amee said:
"When I joined L2P I was expecting a full-on driving school with instructors and strict instructions, but after meeting with Graham I realised that it wasn’t what I had expected. It was very laid back and you were just able to chat while doing your drive, with only some instructions and where to go. You would just organise a time and meeting place then go out for an hour or so and just drive around."
Achieving her P-plates has opened up new opportunities, offering freedom, independence and a stronger connection to her community.
"Now that I have my P’s it’s really freeing and honestly a little scary to know that I can drive around by myself. But it’s great not having to resort to public transport or your parents to drive you places," she said.
Graham’s story is a powerful example of the impact one person can have when they choose to volunteer. Through patience, encouragement and simple acts of support, mentors like Graham are helping young people find their independence and move confidently into adulthood.
If you would like to learn more about becoming an L2P Mentor.
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We work on Wadawurrung land
The Ballarat Foundation acknowledges the Wadawurrung people, the traditional owners of the lands and waterways in our region. We recognise their diversity, resilience, and the ongoing place that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people hold in our communities. We pay our respects to the Elders, both past and present, and commit to working together in the spirit of mutual understanding, respect and reconciliation.
The Ballarat Foundation is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive community where everyone is welcomed, respected and empowered to thrive.