Nationwide Donates $10,000 to Enhance B.R.A.K.E.S. Teen Driver Training Program

Nationwide's Commitment to Teen Driver Safety

The B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe) program recently announced a significant boost in its mission to protect teenage drivers across the nation. In a heartfelt gesture, Nationwide has donated $10,000 to support the non-profit initiative aimed at enhancing teen driver training. This generous contribution aligns with Nationwide's ongoing campaign promoting safe driving habits through their Focused Driving Rewards® program, which encourages drivers to remain distraction-free while on the road.

The exciting announcement comes just after the launch of a multimedia campaign featuring NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr., where real-life parent-teen duos experience the specialized distraction course created by B.R.A.K.E.S. This course is a critical part of the training, which includes five vital exercises that must be completed to earn a training certificate. By engaging directly with the community through such initiatives, B.R.A.K.E.S. is effectively addressing the pressing need for improved teenage driving skills, contributing to safer roadways.

Doug Herbert, the founder of B.R.A.K.E.S., expressed gratitude toward Nationwide for their significant donation. He emphasized how the funding will enable the organization to expand its training sessions and reach more teens across the country. "We are deeply appreciative of this generous donation, which will help our non-profit fund more training programs across the country," Herbert stated. "It's an honor to work with Nationwide and Dale Earnhardt Jr. on this truly impactful teen driver safety initiative."

The Nationwide Focused Driving Rewards® Program

The Focused Driving Rewards® program, an innovative effort developed by Nationwide, is designed to motivate drivers to focus on the road and avoid distractions. Participants can earn points through safe driving practices and later redeem these points for various gift cards. This initiative not only emphasizes driver safety but also rewards positive behavior behind the wheel, creating incentives for young drivers to prioritize safety.

Michael Tripp, Senior Vice President of Personal Lines Sales and Distribution at Nationwide, echoed Herbert's sentiments, highlighting the essential role B.R.A.K.E.S. plays in equipping teens with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of driving. By working together on the Nationwide Focused Driving Rewards® project, Tripp noted that Nationwide learned more about the program's positive influence on youth across the nation. His statement underscored the hope that this donation would enhance B.R.A.K.E.S.'s vital work in fostering responsible driving habits among teens.

A Vision for the Future

As it prepares for a bustling 2026 schedule, B.R.A.K.E.S. will kick off training programs across the United States, starting from the zMAX Dragway on February 7-8. This past year, over 15,000 teens and their parents participated in the training sessions throughout 46 weekends. Since its inception in 2008, B.R.A.K.E.S. has reached a remarkable milestone, training more than 167,000 individuals and significantly contributing to road safety by reducing crash rates among trained teens.

Studies show that teens who have completed the B.R.A.K.E.S. program are 64% less likely to be involved in a crash within the first three years after training. This statistic highlights the effectiveness of the program and its dedication to fostering a culture of safety on the roads. With a commitment to empowering young drivers and shaping responsible habits, B.R.A.K.E.S. continues to strive towards reducing accidents and improving public safety.

In conclusion, the generous donation from Nationwide not only supports the life-saving mission of B.R.A.K.E.S. but also marks a partnership dedicated to creating a safer driving environment for teenagers throughout America. Through initiatives like the Focused Driving Rewards® program and essential training, both organizations are making strides towards a future where safe driving is prioritized, ensuring the well-being of our roads and communities.