On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Take Charge: Ride and Drive event energized the East Los Angeles community, bringing together residents from City Terrace, Ramona Gardens, and surrounding neighborhoods for a day of clean transportation learning and connection.

Participants test drove four electric vehicles provided by Felix Chevrolet, with the Chevrolet Silverado EV truck standing out as the day’s most popular ride. Conversations flowed in both English and Spanish, ensuring families felt welcomed and fully informed.

In addition to test drives, attendees visited resource tables hosted by LADWP, LA County, and USC Credit Union, and others where they received guidance on EV rebates, incentives, and financial tools to make the transition to electric vehicles more affordable. Local organizations shared valuable information on sustainable transportation, the William C. Velásquez Institute provided complimentary meals and the Southwest Voter Registration Education Project held an Smart TV raffle.

Bilingual materials on EV rebates, how to charge, and popular affordable EV models were also distributed, equipping families with the knowledge they need to plan for the future of clean transportation.

The event was a resounding success, empowering East LA with resources, education, and hands-on EV experiences that will help drive a healthier, more sustainable future for the community.

We are reaching out on behalf of GRID Alternatives Greater Los Angeles (GLA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding equitable access to clean energy, mobility, and sustainable technologies, and the William C. Velásquez Institute (WCVI), a nonpartisan public policy research and advocacy organization focused on environmental justice and community empowerment. Together, we are driving meaningful change by addressing systemic barriers to sustainable technology adoption through innovative programs such as the Take Charge Initiative.

Take Charge is a pioneering effort in East Los Angeles designed to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and expand access to affordable, convenient residential EV charging solutions, particularly in underserved and environmentally impacted communities. We will host a Ride and Drive on May 17th, 2025 and we would like to invite you to partner with us on this endeavor.

Saturday, May 17th, 2025, 11 am - 2pm

Take Charge Ride and Drive event

City Terrace Drive at Van Pelt Ave (Parking Lot)

Partners: Grid LA, City of LA, LA County and WCVI