High School Students – Discover Your Independence on the Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.: 2026 Youth Dates: June 14-20, 2026
The application deadline is March 9, 2026.
Winners will be announced in the spring.
We get it – the yearning for independence is real, and college might still be a year away. The good news? We’ve got an exciting opportunity that’s not only educational but also comes with a price tag your parents will love – it won’t cost them a penny!
Introducing The Youth Tour, your ticket to an unforgettable journey to Washington, D.C. Imagine joining around 45 fellow rising seniors from all corners of North Carolina and becoming part of a larger group of 1,800 students from across the nation. Together, you’ll explore iconic landmarks like the Smithsonian, Capitol Hill, Arlington National Cemetery, and various memorials. Dive into American history and unravel the secrets of the electric cooperative business model – the very same local cooperative powering your home is sponsoring your trip!
Here’s the bonus: not only does this trip enhance your college applications, but you’ll also forge friendships with incredible people you might never have met otherwise. As a Youth Tour delegate, you’ll even be eligible to apply for two prestigious college scholarships: the $2,000 Katie Bunch Memorial Scholarship and the $2,500 Gwen B. Price Scholarship.
Curious to learn more? Visit youthtour.coop for a national perspective on the trip. If you’re ready to take the plunge, use the “Find Your Co-op” link to the right to get in touch with your sponsoring electric cooperative.
As an added incentive, the North Carolina YLC representative receives a $2,000 college scholarship.
But wait, there’s more! Introducing the Youth Leadership Council (YLC):
In 1976, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) joined forces with local electric cooperatives to create the Youth Leadership Council (YLC). One outstanding high school student from each state is chosen annually to serve on the Council.
The YLC program is designed to cultivate robust leadership, presentation, and advocacy skills in the nation’s most promising young leaders. As the North Carolina representative, you’ll enjoy a series of educational workshops covering topics such as the cooperative business model, grassroots advocacy, community service, and careers in public service.
Highlights of the YLC Experience:
- Attend the Youth Leadership Council Conference during the summer following the Youth Tour.
- Represent North Carolina at the NRECA Annual Meeting, engaging with a 14,000-delegate assembly and gaining hands-on experience in various roles.
- Participate in the North Carolina Statewide Annual Meeting in Raleigh.