Youth Tour 2026 Highlights

URE delegate Ben Zahn joined students from across Ohio for the 2026 Ohio’s Electric Cooperatives Youth Tour, spending a week in Washington, D.C., exploring the nation’s capital while developing leadership skills, meeting elected officials and learning more about the Cooperative Advantage.

Open to high school sophomores and juniors whose families receive electric or natural gas service from URE, Youth Tour is an all-expenses-paid leadership experience that gives students the opportunity to tour historic landmarks, connect with peers from across the country and gain a deeper understanding of how electric cooperatives serve their members and communities.

“The Youth Tour was truly the trip of a lifetime, and I can’t thank URE enough for choosing me as its representative,” said Ben. “Not only did I experience our nation’s history firsthand, but I also came away with a much greater appreciation for URE, Ohio’s electric cooperatives and the work they do every day.”

Throughout the week, delegates visited historic monuments and museums, toured the U.S. Capitol, participated in leadership activities and heard from inspiring speakers. They also had the opportunity to meet government leaders and build friendships with students from across Ohio and the United States.

On the final day of the trip, the group toured Buckeye Power’s Cardinal Power Plant, where students got a firsthand look at how electricity is generated and delivered to electric cooperative members.

“I learned so much more about URE, Ohio’s electric cooperatives and how hard everyone works to keep the lights on in our communities,” Ben said. “Learning all of this gave me a deeper appreciation and gratitude for URE and electric cooperatives across the nation.”

While visiting Washington’s historic landmarks was a highlight, Ben said the friendships he built and the personal growth he experienced made the biggest impact.

“Youth Tour pushed me outside my comfort zone,” he said. “I made friendships and connections I never expected, and by the end of the trip, I found myself wishing I had just one more day. Looking back, this experience genuinely changed my perspective on life, and I would highly recommend it to anyone. I promise you won’t regret it.”

Youth Tour has been an electric cooperative tradition for more than 60 years, sending more than 1,600 students annually to Washington, D.C., to meet with legislators, explore the nation’s capital and gain a better understanding of the Cooperative Advantage.

Applications for the 2027 Youth Tour will open in November 2026.