Being an instructor for this remarkable program can be
a truly rewarding experience. John Hammon is a twelve
year veteran volunteer AARP Smart Driver instructor
from Raymond. He is one of 27 volunteer instructors
currently teaching in Maine. “I enjoy the reaction I get
from class participants and it feels great to know I am
playing a significant role in helping people become safer
drivers,” says John. When asked what skills he thought
were important for someone interested in becoming a
volunteer instructor, John emphasized the importance of
being a good communicator, being organized and having
great enthusiasm. “Enthusiasm is especially important
for keeping people engaged,” he explains. “It is very
rewarding to see the reaction of our students as they
understand the techniques of safe driving. Even though
it is only four hours long, the course is comprehensive
and offers a terrific learning opportunity for each student
no matter how long they’ve been driving.”
Summer Fun for the
Whole Family!
Ashland Summerfest
July 3-6
Easton Field Days
July 7-13
Northern Maine Fair
July 25-August 2
Mars Hill Homecoming Days
August 8-10
Portage Lake Whoopie Pie Festival
August 14-17
Westfield Jubilee
August 15-17
Washburn August Festival
August 15 – 17
Crown of Maine Balloon Fest
August 21 -24
There are other ways to volunteer if you are a good driver.
One of the toughest subjects around safe driving for most
families is this: How do you know when it’s time for your
loved one to limit or stop driving? Giving up the keys
can be very difficult and emotional and, particularly in
rural communities, can lead to isolation. As part of the
AARP Smart Driver class, participants are introduced
to a free online seminar called We Need to Talk which
will help you determine how to assess your loved ones’
driving skills and provide tools to help you have this
important conversation. You can find out more at www.
aarp.org/weneedtotalk.
centralaroostookchamber.com 207-764-6561
l
One way you can help community residents who no
longer drive is to serve as their volunteer driver when they
need to buy groceries or go to medical appointments.
This is a wonderful way to help your neighbors stay
connected and active. You can find out more about how
to get involved by contacting the Aroostook Agency on
Aging at www.aroostookaging.org or 764-3396.
In today’s challenging environment, being up-to-date on
defensive driving techniques and knowing the best tips
for operating your vehicle can make all the difference in
your ability to get around safely. If you would like to help
others learn these important techniques, please consider
contacting AARP to become a volunteer instructor.
Together, we can keep Maine roads safer each and every
year!
Jane Margesson
AARP Maine Communications Director
SUMMER 2014
15