The NRECA Electric Cooperative Youth Tour has provided high school students with a unique opportunity to visit Washington, D.C., every June since the late 1950s. Organized by electric cooperatives from across the country, the program selects students to experience the nation’s capital, learn about the political process, and engage directly with their elected representatives. This immersive program offers students a personal connection to American history, citizenship, and the role of government while fostering interaction with peers during a shared Youth Day event that highlights the significant contributions of electric cooperatives to their communities.
Since its inception, nearly 50,000 students from rural and small-town America have participated in the Youth Tour, gaining experiences that often shape their futures. Alumni of the program have gone on to achieve remarkable success in various fields, from engineering and corporate leadership to public service in government roles, including the U.S. Senate. The program has cultivated leaders who leave a lasting impact both nationally and in their local communities, emphasizing the program’s value beyond its week-long duration.
The idea for the Youth Tour was inspired by Senator Lyndon B. Johnson’s 1957 call to expose young people to the significance of their nation’s symbols and democratic institutions. The program began with Texas cooperatives sending students to work in Senator Johnson’s office and expanded in 1958 when Iowa and Illinois cooperatives sponsored study tours to Washington. By 1959, the Youth Tour had grown significantly, and in 1964, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) began coordinating activities across state delegations, leading to the well-structured program we know today.
Currently, the Youth Tour involves over 1,500 students and 250 chaperones annually, with delegations visiting their representatives and participating in a mix of state and national activities. The program’s structure allows for both educational and sightseeing experiences, ensuring a comprehensive introduction to American governance and culture. Students interested in this enriching and entirely free program are encouraged to contact Dakota Electric for more information or to apply before the Feb. 21, 2025 deadline.
More information can be found at the National Rural Electric Association as well as the Minnesota Rural Electric Association.
