2026 Contest is NOW OPEN!

HIGH SCHOOL SOPHOMORES & JUNIORS,
WIN THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME - ON US! 
An all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.!

2026 Tour Dates
June 14-20, 2026

WHAT IS THE GOVERNMENT-IN-ACTION YOUTH TOUR?
Every June, as many as 1,500 high school students from across the country spend a week in the nation's capital as part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. The students are sponsored by electric cooperatives – cooperatives that are committed to educating America's rural youth about America and the role electric cooperatives play in developing strong rural communities.

Participating in the Youth Tour is an awesome way to learn about this great nation, develop leadership skills, gain a better understanding of electric cooperatives, and make friendships that will last beyond the week!

TOP 3 REASONS TO ENTER THE ESSAY-WRITING CONTEST:

1. All-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., compliments of Northern Plains Electric Cooperative.

2. A whole week to visit unforgettable historic monuments, museums, and the U.S. Capitol.

3. A learning experience you'll never forget.

 

TO ENTER 2026 ESSAY WRITING CONTEST, STUDENTS MUST:

  • Be a sophomore or junior in high school.
  • You and your parents/guardian's primary residence must be served by Northern Plains Electric Cooperative.
  • Write an essay.
    • Include a cover page with your name, date of birth, name of high school, grade in school, parent or guardian's name, address, telephone number and email address.
    • The essay is not to exceed two, standard 8.5-inch by 11-inch typewritten, double-spaced pages.
    • Essay topic listed below.
  • The deadline is January 16, 2026.  You can email entries to brittneew@nplains.com or mail a hard copy to: Northern Plains Electric, Youth Tour Essay Contest, PO Box 608, Cando, ND 58324.

               

ESSAY QUESTION:

As member-owned organizations, electric cooperatives are always seeking new ways to engage their members. What are some ways electric cooperatives can better communicate and connect, especially with students and young adults?

HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?
Contact Brittnee Wilson, Northern Plains Electric, at 701-968-3314 during regular business hours.

FIND MORE INFORMATION AT
https://www.ndyouthtour.com