Citizens Electric is proud to invest in the next generation of leaders by sponsoring local high school students for two life-changing leadership programs: the National Rural Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. and the Cooperative Youth Conference and Leadership Experience, also known as CYCLE, in Jefferson City.
Youth Tour: A Journey to the Nation’s Capital
Every June, electric cooperatives across the country send students on the trip of a lifetime through the Youth Tour program. This year, Citizens Electric was proud to sponsor Olivia and Makayla, two exceptional local students, for the 2025 experience in Washington, D.C.
In just seven days, Olivia and Makayla walked over 90,000 steps and visited 16 monuments, but the week was about more than sightseeing. Through visits with lawmakers, peer networking, and engaging educational sessions, the students gained deep insight into civic responsibility, American history, and the vital role electric cooperatives play in our communities.
“This year’s Youth Tour I met so many amazing people that helped open my eyes to the diversity of different cultures, personalities, and backgrounds. Seeing so many parts of the history of our country was so special to me and impactful in ways that in most moments brought me chills. I am so honored for this opportunity to have experienced touring our nation’s capital in a way that I will never forget.”
- Olivia I.
“Youth Tour 2025 has taught me how to step outside my box, and that our world is so much bigger, but also smaller than we could ever know. It has shown me that you need to sometimes disregard comfort and put yourself into an environment that you know will change you in order to see the world in a different light.”
- Makayla I.
Youth Tour brings together over 1,500 students from across the country to explore government, leadership, and public service, all while building lifelong friendships and leadership skills. Citizens Electric believes strongly in the impact of this program and its ability to empower students to lead in their local communities and beyond.
CYCLE: Leadership in the Heart of Missouri
Meanwhile, Citizens Electric also sponsored two additional local students, Carter and Marcas, to attend the 2025 Cooperative Youth Conference and Leadership Experience in Jefferson City.
CYCLE is a fast-paced, hands-on leadership development program that brings together around 100 high school students from across Missouri. Carter and Marcas spent four action-filled days participating in workshops, hearing from inspiring speakers, and experiencing state government in action.
During their time at CYCLE, they heard from Dan Meers, also known as KC Wolf. They learned how electric cooperatives operate and how the legislative process works in Missouri. They toured the historic Missouri State Penitentiary and even stepped into the shoes of lawmakers by participating in a mock bill debate on the floor of the Missouri House of Representatives.
“CYCLE was a formative experience that challenged me to grow as a leader, a listener, and a teammate. Through engaging workshops and meaningful collaboration with peers from across the state, I left with a clearer sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the responsibilities of leadership.”
- Marcas S.
“CYCLE taught me many different skills and thoughts through informative talks and activities. It showed me how to see the best in others as well as the basics of electric cooperatives and electricity.”
- Carter H.
The experience left both students with new confidence, lasting friendships, and valuable skills they will carry forward into school, careers, and community involvement. Citizens Electric is proud to support CYCLE and its mission to build informed, engaged leaders of tomorrow.