This once in a lifetime opportunity is only available to high school juniors. CEC representatives recently visited all high schools served by the co-op, to share information about the program. All 11th graders were given a Youth Tour flyer with an application to apply by Nov. 6, at their school. Applications are submitted to the schools where a panel there will select their Youth Tour representatives.
Schools served by CEC include; Samson, Straughn, Brantley, Red Level, Kinston and Pleasant Home. There is no longer an essay requirement, but there is an in-depth application that must be completed and submitted to a designated person at their school no later than Nov. 6, 2026.
The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour has brought high school students to Washington, D.C. each year for a week in June since the late 1950s. Students apply for this program by electric cooperatives through different selection processes. All co-ops believe that it’s important for students to visit our nation’s capital, learn about the political process and enhance their leadership skills through various activities during the trip.
Students gain a personal understanding of American history and their role as a citizen by meeting their representatives and senators. While student groups are organized at the state level, they all come together for Youth Day, where they get to meet students from all across the country and hear featured speakers who provide insight to the important roles electric cooperatives play in their communities.
More than 50,000 students from rural areas and small towns across America have participated in this program. Some of our Youth Tour alumni have gone on to design airplanes, to lead companies like Apple, and to serve in the highest ranks of our government, including the U.S. Senate. Don’t be surprised if you run into a former Youth Tour participant who is a congressional aide on Capitol Hill. While several of our alumni work in Washington, you will find even more alumni in your own community.