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News

Help Bring Power to the Navajo Nation: Donate Trucks or Minivans to Electrical Workers Without Borders

Feb 19, 2025

Electrical Workers Without Borders (EWWB), a volunteer organization sponsored by the IBEW, is launching a critical project to bring electricity to homes on the Navajo Nation in the southwestern United States. Currently, over 13,000 homes in the Navajo Nation lack electricity, meaning families live without basic power and lighting. To support this mission, EWWB is seeking donations by April 1st of used crew cab and extended cab pickup trucks, as well as minivans, to transport volunteers and materials to project sites this summer.

Craig Clark, former NECA District 8 Vice President, is deeply involved in this initiative. “When my tour of duty as NECA’s District 8 Vice President came to a close at the end of 2024, I was interested in where else I might be able to focus some of my time,” said Clark. “I researched Electrical Workers Without Borders and was delighted to see they were looking for volunteers. EWWB is an IBEW-sponsored organization seeking out opportunities to use the skills of the IBEW membership to help areas of the world that do not enjoy the comforts that electricity provides and that we so much take for granted.”

Clark, who has dedicated 50 years to the electrical trade—including 18 years as a CEO—sees this as an opportunity to give back. “The Navajo Nation was established in 1868. It’s mind-boggling that 157 years later, there are still so many homes that don’t have refrigeration, electric light, or air conditioning. For me, this is a very worthy project to get involved with and make at least a little difference in some American lives.” As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the Navajo Nation Reservation and Off-Reservation Trust Land had a population of more than 165,000 individuals.

EWWB aims to have 3-5 donated vehicles ready for deployment by early April 2025. Vehicles need to be roadworthy, and a clear title is required. While air conditioning and four-wheel drive would be highly beneficial given the intense summer conditions, they are not mandatory.

“One way NECA contractors can easily get involved is to donate some decommissioned pickup trucks or minivans to help transport the volunteers to the various homes,” Clark emphasized. “EWWB is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, so donated vehicles will be considered a charitable contribution. Plus, EWWB will come to your shop to pick them up.”

If your company has vehicles that are being retired and you’d like to support this vital cause, please contact Craig Clark via email at [email protected]. For more information about the EWWB, visit their website.

Your donation can help bring power—and a better quality of life—to thousands of Navajo families. Join us in making a difference today.