Looking for next generation of leaders: Apply for the 2022 youth tour/leadership camp
Some people argue that leaders are born, not made. While it’s true that some people are born with certain traits that make them more comfortable in leadership roles, all great leaders need help developing their skills.
Many others who might not be perceived as “natural” leaders can become exceptional leaders if given the right coaching and an opportunity to shine.
What if a high school student in your life – a child, a grandchild or the nice kid down the road who’s always willing to help out a neighbor – had the opportunity to participate in a nationally recognized leadership program?
What if previous participants of that program went on to serve as elected officials – or the CEO of one of the most profitable, innovative and highly respected companies in the world? What if that program was available at no cost to the student?
For members of SLV REC and other Colorado cooperatives, these aren’t hypothetical questions. Every summer, bright and talented high school students from across Colorado take part in the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. and the Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs. Each program is all-expenses-paid. Current high school students between the ages of 16 and 18, as of June 2022, are encouraged to apply.
These young men and women represent our next generation of leaders. They are the people who will make our communities better places to live and lead businesses that will provide good jobs and valuable services.
The Washington D.C. Youth Tour will take place June 12-19, 2022. The week of activities begins in Denver where students from around the state visit the state capitol and are introduced to the electric cooperative program. The students then head to Washington D.C. with more than 1,800 of their peers for a week of learning and exploring. They will visit the Arlington National Cemetery, stroll through the Smithsonian museums, tour historic monuments, meet elected officials and learn about the role of electric cooperatives in today’s world.*
The Youth Leadership Camp will take place July 16-21, 2022. This weeklong adventure brings together about 100 students from Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming and Oklahoma to the mountains near Steamboat Springs. Students will learn about the cooperative business model and leadership skills that will serve them well throughout their life. The students will be asked to form their own cooperative, electing board members and voting on issues. They will participate in a variety of activities designed to develop leadership skills, including communication and teamwork. There is also plenty of time set aside for campers to explore and enjoy the mountains including a raft trip on the Colorado River, a gondola ride to the top of Mt. Werner and a camp that takes advantage of Colorado’s great outdoors.*
(*Activities could change due to Covid restrictions.)
Electric cooperatives have sponsored the Youth Tour for more than 50 years because we believe it is our responsibility as not-for-profit, community-based organizations to invest in our next generation of leaders.
Interested students must complete an application form and short essay. For more details go online to slvrec.com (Community tab) or call 719-852-3538 and speak to Jennifer.