Ranger Reed of Independence recently participated in the National Rural Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. Sponsored by ECI REC, he traveled to Washington, D.C., in mid-June with 34 other student leaders from Iowa.

Every summer, this weeklong leadership development program provides high school students with opportunities to learn about government, the electric cooperative business model, and today’s pressing issues in the energy industry. Students meet their elected officials, tour historic sites, and run their very own snack cooperative.

For over 65 years, the annual Electric Cooperative Youth Tour has been a joint effort of locally owned electric cooperatives like ECI REC, statewide trade associations, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

Ranger said he had the experience of a lifetime. “The Youth Tour was so amazing. It was really cool to meet our elected officials and learn about politics up close. Plus, I made friends and experienced history firsthand. It really made me think about what it means to be an American and shows that people my age do care about this country.”

In addition to taking in the sights of the nation’s capital, all the state groups convened for Rural Electric Youth Day, sponsored by the NRECA, to learn from public figures and other inspirational speakers. This year’s Youth Day agenda included Mike Schlappi, a four-time Paralympic medalist and two-time world wheelchair basketball champion. Schlappi shares his inspiring message for every American, young or old: “Just because you can’t stand up doesn’t mean you can’t stand out.”

Since 1958, Iowa’s electric cooperatives have sponsored high school students on Youth Tour. Students apply and are selected for this program by their local electric cooperatives. Over 50,000 students have participated in the Youth Tour program since its creation. For more information on how you can participate in ECI REC’s 2026 Youth Tour program, contact your Cooperative toll free at 877-850-4343, go to the Youth Tour page on our website, or visit IowaYouthTour.com. You can also search for “Iowa Youth Tour” on Facebook or Instagram to see the group’s recent adventures.

From Ranger

Dear East-Central Iowa REC,

Thank you for sending me on this wonderful trip. I had so much fun. I have learned so much about our government. Thank you again for all you do.

Ranger T. Reed