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Mission
Our mission at Progressive Pathways is developing innovative ways to assist the average person in navigating the complexities of society, building stronger bonds within our communities and finding ways to address the problems and issues that our world faces. We hope to create a progressive set of life skills while utilizing existing methods that are tried and true; life skills that incorporate environmentally friendly practices and
which forge equity within our varied communities.
Who We Are
We are a multicultural Minnesota nonprofit organization comprised of people compelled to choose the path of progress and who encourage others to do the same. Through our choices and what we offer others, especially youth (meaning our time, knowledge, wisdom and resources), we can help create and enjoy positive changes
in the Twin Cities and beyond.
Progressive Pathways offers ideas and resources, particularly to urban youth and the disenfranchised to help reduce socioeconomic disparities through knowledge, skills and opportunities.
We believe that when we identify a problem around us, we become accountable
to our community to do what we can to help correct the the issue.
See our Projects Page for societal matters that need our attention.
CURRENT FOCUS: Help urban teens become licensed drivers
Many teens in Minneapolis find it difficult to get their driver's license. Notice that while the following process may seem basic, if a teen does not yet posses the skills or support needed, each step can become a serious socioeconomic barrier:
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Most driving schools are outside the city limits - No, it's not a course in high school anymore!
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Driver's Training in Minnesota costs upwards of $400, which may not be feasible for many teens.
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Classes are typically held during late evening hours in the suburbs, which limits many inner-city teens without transportation from committing to 30 hours of classroom lessons due to transportation and safety in getting back and forth.
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If the first portion of the licensing process (30 classroom hours) is achieved and the teen passes the permit test, they are then required to complete 50 behind-the-wheel hours at home - many of these families may not have a vehicle, or any licensed drivers.
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The next step of going to the DMV with a parent and having the necessary documents to apply for and get a Provisional Permit to drive can become a significant roadblock due to lack of support and preparation (i.e. access to birth certificates and social security cards, or even when a parent to take the student to the DMV).
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Making arrangements for the 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction - parents often handle this, but if teens need to do this on their own, they may not be fully equipped.
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Setting the road test appointment online with Minnesota Department of Vehicle Services is a process that requires some guidance, as well. It's not as simple as one may think.
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Having a vehicle with insurance and that meets all requirements is also a problem for many teens.
Progressive Pathways has developed ways to streamline the process by
providing guidance for achieving a driver's license - a tool necessary to get ahead in our society.
What ends up happening is that teens still need to work, get to school or help their families, and they often end up driving anyway. This results in poor driving habits, resulting in accidents, property damage, and getting into a cycle of unpaid tickets, loss of property and the inability to ever become a licensed driver. It really does contribute to the cycle of poverty.
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Thank you for your interest in Progressive Pathways and how we are working to build our communities and the people who comprise them here in the Twin Cities.
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Perhaps you would like to:
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learn more about our programs or driving lessons;
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discover how to get involved or volunteer;
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network as another nonprofit organization;
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discuss and share progressive ideas, or
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simply have a question or two.
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Please feel free to contact us using the form to the right or using the information below. We look forward to hearing from you!
(612) 223-2318