Once a year, York Electric makes it possible for two high school juniors to join dozens of other South Carolina students as part of the Washington Youth Tour — a six-day, all-expense paid educational experience in Washington, DC.

Well over a thousand high school students, all sponsored by electric cooperatives from throughout the United States, converge on our nation's capital to take part in this up-close look at history — both made and in-the-making.

The itinerary for the tour during a given year varies depending on the events and exhibits available.

Typical activities include visits to the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, tours of the Capitol, the White House and Smithsonian, rides down the Potomac on chartered boats and prime seating for shows at Ford's Theater or other performing arts venues.

South Carolina students also meet with their representatives and senators.

The tour, scheduled for the third week in June of each year, is designed to get students involved in the political process by giving them firsthand knowledge of our government in operation.

High school juniors who'd like to apply for the Electric Cooperative Washington Youth Tour should contact York Electric or read Living In South Carolina for details.

The 2008 Youth Tour is scheduled for June 14-19, 2008; the deadline for application was February 14, 2008. Please check back for updates.

Related links:

2008 Youth Tour Ad (179k PDF) »

2007 Youth Tour Winners »

Watch the 2007 YouTube.com Video »

For more info, visit www.youthtour.coop