During the tour, the students learned about the Cooperative Business Model and United States history, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and various Smithsonian museums. They also paid their respects at Arlington National Cemetery, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, and the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Delegates also met with members of North Carolina’s congressional delegation during a meeting on Capitol Hill, where they had the opportunity to ask policy questions and receive valuable advice.

“The Youth Tour was eye-opening. Visiting the monuments and museums brought history to life in a way I’ll never forget,” said Breonna. “Meeting our congressional leaders and learning how cooperatives work gave me a better understanding of young people’s role in shaping our future.”

“Being in Washington, D.C., with students from across the country was incredible. I gained a wealth of knowledge not just about government, but also about leadership and what it means to serve one’s community,” said Jazaria. “I’m so grateful to Pee Dee Electric for making this opportunity possible.”

As part of Pee Dee Electric’s commitment to community and powering a brighter future one member at a time, the cooperative sponsors students each year to represent Pee Dee Electric on the Rural Electric Youth Tour. Rising high school juniors and seniors are encouraged to apply for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity beginning in November each year.