Douglas Electric Cooperative Sponsors Student for the 2025 Youth Tour
Dear Member,
We are excited to announce that Darwin Hudson will represent Douglas Electric Cooperative (DEC) next month on the 2025 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. This incredible opportunity allows students from rural communities to explore our nation’s capital, meet with elected officials and gain a deeper understanding of how democracy works.
The Youth Tour is made possible thanks to support from our board members and management team, the Oregon Rural Electric Cooperative Association, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Since 1957, when then-Sen. Lyndon B. Johnson encouraged rural electric cooperatives to give young people the chance to experience Washington, D.C. This program has grown into a life-changing event for more than 1,500 students each year.
During the trip, students visit historic landmarks, dive into American history, and learn more about the role of electric cooperatives in their communities. They also get a chance to sit down with their congressional representatives to ask questions and discuss issues that matter to them.
Each state delegation selects 1 student to serve on NRECA’s Youth Leadership Council, a national leadership program that includes an additional trip to Washington, D.C., in July and participation in NRECA’s annual meeting the following winter.
Youth Tour alumni can apply for the Glenn English National Cooperative Leadership Foundation Scholarship, which has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships since 2014. Additional scholarships are available for students pursuing electrical engineering, especially those planning to bring their skills back to rural communities.
At DEC’s 2025 annual meeting, 2024 Youth Tour delegate Scott Llewellyn reflected on his unforgettable journey to Washington, D.C. He shared memorable moments from visiting historic landmarks, learning about the foundations of our democracy, and building lasting connections with other Youth Tour delegates. Scott also spoke about the essential role electric cooperatives play in rural communities, and he represented Douglas Electric with pride and enthusiasm.
Visit Youth Programs to learn more about the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour.
Sincerely,
General Manager Keith Brooks