Group photo of kids at the NRECA Rural Electric Youth Tour

Youth Programs

A Trip of a Lifetime

Learn more about the Youth Tour and Youth Leadership Camp.

DMEA proudly supports the National Rural Electric Tour and the CEEI Youth Leadership Camp. Each summer DMEA sponsors one student to attend the Youth Tour and several students to attend the camp.

NRECA Rural Electric Youth Tour

June 16 - 22, 2025

Calling all high school juniors and seniors! The NRECA Rural Electric Youth Tour is an opportunity for students in DMEA's service territory to spend an educational and fun week in Washington, D.C., learning about government and the electric cooperative model, touring historical monuments and museums, and experiencing everything D.C. has to offer! Bottom line, you will make friendships that will last a lifetime and be part of a group with more than 50,000 alumni in every walk of life, including U.S. Senators and CEOs.

More information can be found on the Colorado Rural Electric Association's website.

CEEI Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp

June 12 - 17, 2025

Each year, DMEA sends up to three students from our local high schools to attend the CEEI Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp. The camp offers a great opportunity for high school students to learn about the cooperative business model, tour a generation facility, learn about government, and build their communication and leadership skills. While at camp, students set up a cooperative and learn how power is generated when visiting a mine and coal plant. They learn leadership skills and the importance of protecting the environment. Plus, there is plenty of time for fun, including music and dancing, a float trip on the Colorado River, a hike to Fish Creek Falls, and a ride on the gondola to the top of Mt. Werner.

More information can be found on the Colorado Rural Electric Association's website.

How to apply

To apply for either program above, complete the Youth Leadership Application by clicking the button below. DMEA will select one overall winner to attend the Rural Electric Youth Tour and three other students to attend the Youth Leadership Camp. If selected, you will be notified in January.

Applicants must:

  • Be between the ages of 16 and 18 at the time of the programs but not yet have graduated from high school
  • Be dependents of a DMEA member (your parents/guardians are DMEA members)
  • Submit a completed application (click the button below) and a 500-word essay (details included in application packet)

Deadline to apply: You must submit your application using the button below before January 1, 2025.

Youth Leadership Programs Application