At The Chase Home, one of the highest priorities for youth in both the Residential and Independent Living Programs is preparing them for independent living and equipping them with essential life skills. From learning to grocery shop for nutritious foods and practicing good hygiene to managing a bank account, attending doctor’s appointments, and applying for jobs, these skills are critical for their future success. One of the most important milestones, however, is helping them obtain a driver’s license—a key step in securing personal freedom and reducing barriers to opportunity.
Each year, The Chase Home spends around $7,000 on driver’s education programs for its youth, providing over 150 supervised driving hours. However, the home had long lacked a vehicle suitable for teaching these young people to drive safely. That changed on October 24, 2024, when Damien Callahan of Seacoast Cars and Coffee drove down the driveway of The Chase Home’s campus at 698 Middle Road in a sleek 2007 black Jaguar, marking a historic moment—the first-ever dedicated Campus Car in The Chase Home’s 147-year history.
“For the longest time, we have really needed a campus car for our Independent Living residents (ages 18-21) and for youth in Residential Treatment Services (ages 11-18) to practice safe driving,” said Meme Wheeler, Executive Director of The Chase Home. “Our options were limited to having them learn on the large vans we use or in a staff member’s personal car. Now, thanks to the Callahan family, we have a vehicle that meets their needs.”
The gift of the Jaguar carries special meaning for Callahan, who shared, “This car has been in my family for a couple of years. I taught both of my daughters how to drive in it. It feels really good knowing a car that meant so much to my family is going to help the kids at The Chase Home gain the same freedom and life skills. It will have an even larger impact, helping them get where they need to go and reducing barriers they face.”
Olivia Callahan, Damien’s daughter, was the most recent owner of the car and quickly gave her father the greenlight to make this life-changing gift. Growing up and raising their family in Portsmouth, the Callahan’s have long felt a connection to The Chase Home. “The Chase Home has always been a special part of our community, and it feels amazing to support them in this way,” Callahan said.
The arrival of the car was met with excitement by the youth and staff at The Chase Home. A resident in the Independent Living Program, was outside when the car pulled in. “I couldn’t believe it,” said the 20-year-old =resident, who has lived at The Chase Home since she was 13. “One of the most frustrating parts of my life right now is relying on others for transportation—to get to work, go grocery shopping, see friends, and get to appointments. This car will make such a big difference.”
For this individual and others like her, the Jaguar represents more than just a vehicle—it’s a way to gain independence and overcome barriers.
The Chase Home staff have also gone above and beyond to help these young people learn to drive. Over the last 10 months, Residential Case Manager Tock MacInnes has volunteered over 30 hours of his time and put countless miles on his own Mazda to help residents gain driving experience. “My kids are in college now, so those driver’s ed hours aren’t that far behind me,” said MacInnes. “There is so much value in making sure these kids know the rules of the road and can drive safely.”
On all fronts, this is a significant win for The Chase Home. “It improves public safety by ensuring a new generation of safe drivers. It builds dignity and reduces barriers for the 18–21-year-olds in our Independent Living Program,” Wheeler said. “This is exactly what we needed, and we are so grateful to the Callahan family and Seacoast Cars and Coffee for making it happen.”
Looking to hear more about ways to get involved and make amazing things happen for at-risk youth? Kick-off Chase Home for The Holidays with us November 12th from 6pm-9pm at Jimmy’s Jazz Club for our 10th Annual Wine & Chocolate Tasting. Tickets are $100 per person, and are on sale here: Chase Home for the Holidays – Chase Home
About The Chase Home Founded in 1877, The Chase Home is one of the oldest non-profits in the Seacoast, serving at-risk youth and families in crisis. Through residential treatment, community-based services, and independent living programs, The Chase Home provides critical support to youth impacted by trauma, helping them to overcome challenges and thrive.