What do 1,500 high school students, our nation’s capital and electric cooperatives have in common? The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, of course.

Youth Tour was established with one thought in mind – to inspire our next generation of leaders. Since 1964, more than 50,000 young Americans have taken advantage of this special opportunity offered by their electric cooperative. BCREMC alone has sent 114 students since 1964. 

It all takes place June 11-18, when hundreds of electric co-ops across the country will send participants to Washington, D.C., for a chance to learn about the cooperative business model and enjoy a week of sightseeing. 

While in D.C., participants have a chance to meet with their elected officials and discuss the issues that are important back home. Without a doubt, Youth Tour has grown into an invaluable program that gives young Americans an experience that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.  

Youth Tour is so much more than a sightseeing trip. Students have repeatedly shared that this experience has helped them grow into successful professionals. It has also benefited our local communities. Youth Tour participants return home with a deeper understanding and skillset of what it takes to be leader, and as a result, they put these skills to use right here in our community. 

Another youth opportunity this summer is Camp Kilowatt. Camp Kilowatt is a fun and unique camp experience for sixth grade students going into seventh grade across Indiana. Camp takes place June 7-10 at Camp Tecumseh in Brookston, Indiana. 

Kids get the chance to learn more about energy while making new friends and enjoying fun activities and games over three days. Perhaps you know a student who is interested in a great camp opportunity or who enjoys science. They would be a great candidate for the program. If you do, please share this article with them.

Help us find the next generation of leaders by sharing the Youth Tour and Camp Kilowatt experiences with a promising student. The deadline to apply is March 1. For more information about Youth Tour and Camp Kilowatt, go to campkilowatt.org or indianayouthtour.org.