Photo by NDAREC/Liza Kessel
Have you ever been to Washington, D.C.? Would you like to learn more about electric cooperatives? The North Dakota Electric Cooperative Youth Tour is a week-long, all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., in June 2024.
Students from across the country gather in our nation’s capital to learn about cooperatives, meet with our state’s elected officials and visit historical sites. Each student represents his or her local electric cooperative, with 44 states represented.
This is a remarkable opportunity for students who are a sophomore or junior in high school and whose parents or guardians are served by an electric cooperative. Students only need to submit a short essay to their local electric cooperative. If selected, they will represent that cooperative in Washington, D.C.
Youth Tour provides numerous educational opportunities. Throughout the week, the 1,800 delegates attended numerous workshops to learn more about electric cooperatives from staff members with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. The North Dakota group got to meet with Rep. Kelly Armstrong and Sen. John Hoeven, visiting with them and their staff about the energy industry and agriculture in North Dakota.
The activities and historical sites we experienced on Youth Tour were exceptional. Every day of the trip was filled with learning opportunities and excitement. The highlights of the trip for me were the Gettysburg National Military Park, the National Air and Space Museum and Arlington National Cemetery.
My favorite place to visit was the American landmark of George Washington’s Mount Vernon. The beauty of the landscape, combined with the historical value of the location, was inspiring. The opportunity to see and tour the same location our first president experienced was truly remarkable.
My experience with Youth Tour has had a positive impact on my life. It was not only educational and historically enriching, but the memories I made will last a lifetime. I went from learning history in a textbook to observing the rich history of America in person. The honor of being selected as the Youth Tour delegate is an opportunity I will always cherish. This life-changing experience was powerful, rewarding and valuable.
Youth Tour 2024 is right around the corner. This is an excellent opportunity for any student who wants to learn more about cooperatives, meet new people and take in the historical sights of Washington, D.C. I am so thankful for this incredible experience. Be sure to apply and be ready for the trip of a lifetime.
__
David Abel, 16, is a junior at Abel Academy Homeschool. He competes on the South Prairie School trap team and the National Archery in the Schools Program. He also enjoys rock climbing, running, outdoor activities and traveling. David is the son of Brad and Andrea Abel, members of Verendrye Electric Cooperative. During the Youth Tour trip, he was selected as the Youth Leadership Council delegate representing North Dakota.
