Each year, Union Power joins other electric cooperatives from across the state and nation to sponsor the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, an annual trip that gives exceptional high school juniors the opportunity to experience the sites of Washington, D.C., meet with elected officials, and learn more about how they can make a difference as young leaders.

Unfortunately, the 2020 Youth Tour was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so as an added safety measure, the 2021 Youth Tour will be held as a week-long virtual event, rather than in-person in Washington, D.C., from Sunday, June 20, to Saturday, June 26.

As part of the virtual experience, students selected for this year’s tour will be able to participate in engaging online group activities that bring them together with other young leaders from across the state and country. They will learn more about their government and electric cooperatives and hear from members of North Carolina’s congressional delegation, as well as other notable North Carolinians. All participating students will be eligible to apply for multiple scholarships.

While 2021 will look a little different than previous years, Union Power is proud to continue the long-standing cooperative tradition of the Youth Tour, and we are excited to announce our winners.

Congratulations to Ally Nielsen of Piedmont High School and Sophia Freeman of Marvin Ridge High School, who were selected to represent the co-op at this year’s Youth Tour.