Each summer, the NRECA Youth Tour brings together more than 1,600 high school students from 44 states for a week in Washington, D.C. Since its beginnings in the late 1950s, the program has grown into a signature youth leadership experience of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), connecting students from electric cooperatives nationwide.

This year, CHELCO was represented by four student delegates: Calie Brackin (Walton High School), Noah Seeliger (Collegiate High School at NWFSC), Rose Weinacker (Niceville High School), and Kaylee Yeakos (Paxton School).

Selection for the program is competitive, with students submitting video entries that are reviewed and scored by independent judges who are familiar with Youth Tour but not affiliated with CHELCO. 

Although the itinerary includes visits to well-known historic sites, the true focus of Youth Tour is leadership and learning. Students have the opportunity to engage with public officials, explore the role and history of electric cooperatives, and connect with peers from across the country in an environment designed to inspire civic understanding and lifelong relationships.

To be eligible, applicants must be high school juniors and have a parent or guardian who is a CHELCO member.

Applications are distributed through school counselors each fall and are also available at CHELCO.com.

More information can be found at CHELCO.com/youth-tour.