Menucha Awarded PGE Drive Change Grant
Moving Toward a Greener, More Accessible Future
Date: 9/29/26
Menucha Welcomes New Electric Van Through PGE Drive Change Fund
We are excited to announce the arrival of Menucha's new electric van, made possible through the Portland General Electric Drive Change Fund by way of the Oregon DEQ Clean Fuels Program.
This new vehicle represents more than a transportation upgrade. It is an investment in accessibility, sustainability, and Menucha's ability to serve our community for years to come.
The van will be used both on and off the property to transport supplies, equipment, and guests. Whether it is helping retreat groups move materials across our 100-acre campus or providing transportation support that makes it easier for people to participate in programs and events, the van will play an important role in reducing transportation barriers at Menucha.
As a retreat and conference center that welcomes thousands of visitors each year, we rely on transportation as an essential part of our operations. By transitioning to an electric vehicle, we are reducing emissions, lowering operating costs, and taking another step toward responsible stewardship of the land.
We are grateful to Portland General Electric for helping make this project possible. Their investment supports not only cleaner transportation, but also greater access to the meaningful experiences, connections, and opportunities that happen every day at Menucha.
The van has arrived and is already preparing for its first adventures. We look forward to putting it to work in support of our mission and the communities we serve.
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Date: 10/23/25
Menucha is proud to announce that we have been awarded the PGE Drive Change Grant. This transformative investment will help us reduce our carbon footprint, increase functional access, and deepen our commitment to environmental stewardship.
Through this grant, we will:
- Purchase a new electric van, enabling us to serve our guest groups, particularly those from underserved communities within our service area.
- Install on-site EV charging infrastructure, making clean transportation possible for us and for future partners.
As part of this initiative, we will also integrate educational components. Signage and interpretive materials will help visitors understand why EV technology matters, particularly in the context of climate justice, land stewardship, and inclusive access to retreat spaces.
This grant would not be possible without the generous support of PGE Drive Change, nor without the ongoing support of our donors, volunteers, and community. Together, we are investing not just in infrastructure, but in the future: healthier air, cleaner land, and a more accessible Menucha for all.
We invite you to follow our progress. Please check back here for photos, stories from staff and guests, and ways you can participate in celebrating with us, sharing the news, or helping us envision the next steps in sustainable care.
For more information, visit the PGE Drive Change website (https://portlandgeneral.com/energy-choices/electric-vehicles-charging/funding-your-ev-or-charging-project/pge-drive-change-fund)