Washington, D.C.
June 16-22, 2025
Electric cooperatives from across the country send over 1,500 youth to the nation’s capital every summer. This week-long, all-expenses-paid trip to our nation’s capital is organized by the Colorado Rural Electric Association and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
The following is the tentative trip schedule that is subject to change:
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
DAY 5
DAY 6
DAY 7
Steamboat Springs
July 12-17, 2025
Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp is held at the Glen Eden Resort near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The primary objective of the week-long camp is to provide educational experiences and to develop leadership skills that will assist young adults in meeting future challenges
The best way to learn about cooperatives is to form one, and that is what the participants do. When students arrive the first day, they form a cooperative and elect a board of directors. Each member of the cooperative is expected to take part in the workings of the co-op by seeking election to the board or by serving on one of the camp activity committees.
A number of special presentations are highlighted at the camp including electricity safety, leadership skills, avian protection, and a simulation to help students understand the legislative process. The group also visits the Craig Station Power Plant and the Trapper Coal Mine.
Of course, there is plenty of time for recreation. Glen Eden Resort has a volleyball court, swimming pool, hot tubs and tennis courts. There is a dance, pizza parties, a banquet, a trip to the top of Mt. Warner, time to explore Steamboat Springs, and a raft trip on the Colorado River.
Each local cooperative has its own qualifications for participation in the Leadership Camp. Most students are entering their senior year in the fall. If you are interested in attending the camp, see your high school counselor or give your local electric cooperative a call.
“Youth Tour was an incredible experience that I recommend to anyone my age, regardless of what field they want to explore. Whether you want a career in government, electricity, or something else, the Youth Tour is greatly valuable!”
“It’s an incredible experience that I would recommend wholeheartedly. Be prepared to encounter differing opinions and be willing to expand your own. It was very powerful to be in a room with people from almost every state and to know that we all have something in common.”
To apply you must:
Selection information:
Provide an original written, video, or artistic essay describing what leadership means to you and how you would apply leadership skills to your life and community.
You can present your ideas through a written essay, video, illustrations, artwork, or any other creative medium.
Students must submit their application by Friday, January 17.