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MAKUS has for two years presented Alive to Drive, a free program open to the community at Chattanooga’s Tivoli Theater. Focusing on preparing teens to drive safely, the program features Phil Berardelli, national speaker and author of several teen driving manuals. Mr. Berardelli has long sought to change the prevailing attitude among teens and their parents that a kid’s 16th birthday is synonymous with a trip to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). He advocates driving when ready as opposed to automatic driving privileges at age 16. Chattanooga Mayor Bob Corker endorsed the program by opening each evening. The 2003 event included the first showing of the MAKUS video It Could Happen To You.
Safety Has Its Privileges (SHIP) Day took place in October 2003 at Chattanooga’s Engel Stadium. The purpose of the free program was to educate young drivers ages 14 to 24 on traffic safety and prevention through demonstrations, facts, brochures and hands-on instruction. Participants received information on Seatbelt Safety, How to Conduct Yourself During a Traffic Stop, Graduated Driver's License, Defensive Driving, Public Health & Safety, and State and Local Traffic Laws. Hamilton County Health Department conducted car seat and seatbelt checks, and the ‘No-Zone Truck’ was on site teaching young drivers precautionary measures they should take when driving near 18-wheel trucks. Chattanooga’s Police Department provided a DUI car to emphasize the results of driving while under the influence. Sponsors included MAKUS, Hamilton County Health Department, the National Black Police Association, and Chattanooga’s Parks, Recreation, Arts & Culture Department.
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