Youth Tour

A once-in-a-lifetime experience

Youth Tour

Reach out and touch America's history and monuments by entering the Nobles Cooperative Electric's Youth Tour contest.

Electric cooperatives have always had a strong commitment to their local youth. Travel to Washington, D.C., where you will meet your U.S. Representatives and Senators. This trip will give you the opportunity to watch history come alive as you explore the museums, memorials and monuments with students from Minnesota.

WHAT IS YOUTH TOUR?
It is an all-expenses paid trip to our nation's capitol where participants go with more than 1,900 students nationwide to tour museums, visit America's most cherished monuments and even meet their elected officials. All while learning about electric cooperatives and their role in the community, but more than anything these students have the time of their lives and create friendships that last a lifetime!

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO ATTEND?
High school freshmen, sophomores, juniors or seniors attending school in NCE's service areas can apply. Pick up an application from your school counselor, contact Nobles at 800-776-0517 or click here for an application.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
It is totally FREE!
The winner travels with 75 other Minnesota teens sponsored by rural electric cooperatives. The tour includes a tour of the national monuments, historic sites, special events and interaction with 1,900 teenagers from across the U.S. sponsored by rural electric cooperatives.

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WHAT WILL YOU SEE?

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Washington, D.C., where you'll:

  • Explore iconic landmarks: Stand in awe of the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. Pay your respects at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial, and experience the solemn beauty of Arlington Cemetery.
  • Discover historical treasures: Marvel at the architectural grandeur of Washington National Cathedral, witness the power of the Supreme Court, and delve into the vast knowledge held within the Library of Congress. Immerse yourself in the world-class Smithsonian Museums and reflect at the poignant Holocaust Memorial Museum. Get a glimpse behind the scenes with an FBI Headquarters Tour and step back in time at George Washington's Mount Vernon.
  • Create lasting memories: Enjoy a magical moonlight cruise and dance on the Potomac River, be captivated by the precision of the U.S. Army Drill Team, and celebrate with new friends at an all-states dinner and dance.
  • Forge meaningful connections: Connect with 1,900 teenagers from across the U.S., share ideas with your Members of Congress, and build friendships that will last a lifetime.
  • Embrace leadership opportunities: Seize the chance to interview for a coveted spot on the Youth Leadership Council. If chosen, you'll return to D.C. next year as a Youth Tour assistant, attend the National Rural Electric Convention, and participate in a leadership training seminar in Lincoln, Nebraska.
  • Places and events are subject to change depending on scheduling.

The 2025 application period is now over, please note that the deadline for 2026 applications is February 28, 2026.

Selection procedures for Youth Tour Contest

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Awards

1. 1st Place: Washington Youth Tour
2. 2nd Place: First alternate and $150
3. 3rd Place: Second alternate and $100
4. $500 Scholarship winner

First 15 applicants receive a $20 gift certificate to Amazon.com.

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Eligibility

The contest is open to any current high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors or seniors attending school in the Nobles Cooperative Electric service area.

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Contest

  • Contestant writes a 300-word essay (no more than two pages double-spaced) on a topic determined by the cooperative. This year's topic: If chosen as a Youth Tour delegate you will be traveling to Washing­ton, D.C., to experience and learn about America's rich history. "What moment in American history do you wish you had been a part of and what would you have contributed had you been there at that moment in time?"
  • Complete the attached application.
  • Submit completed essay and application form by February 28, 2025.
  • A judging committee will select five finalists from the essays submitted.
  • Five finalists will be interviewed (15 minutes per finalist) in mid-March. 
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Useful Resources

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Contact Us

Contact us with any questions:

Tracey Haberman: 800-776-0517 or nce@nobles.coop

Nobles Cooperative Electric Youth Tour Application

We're excited you're interested in this incredible opportunity! To apply, please follow these simple steps:

  1. Complete the application form below. Be sure to fill out all required fields accurately and thoroughly.

  2. Write a 300-word essay. This is your chance to show us who you are and why you deserve a spot on the Youth Tour. This year's topic: If chosen as a Youth Tour delegate you will be traveling to Washing­ton, D.C., to experience and learn about America's rich history. "What moment in American history do you wish you had been a part of and what would you have contributed had you been there at that moment in time?"

  3. Upload your essay. You can upload your essay as a document file (.doc, .docx, or .pdf).

  4. Contact us if you have any questions at 800-776-0517 or nce@nobles.coop.

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