GVEC is inviting high school sophomores and juniors whose parent or legal guardian is a GVEC member to apply for the 2026 Government- in-Action Youth Tour—a lifechanging, weeklong leadership experience in Washington, D.C.
This youth leadership program is organized by Texas Electric Cooperatives and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. As a sponsor, GVEC will sponsor local students for the June 14–21, 2026, guided trip. The attending delegates will also receive a $2,500 scholarship reserved for their senior year, to be used toward the college or trade school of their choice.
While in the nation’s capital, delegates will tour historic landmarks such as Arlington National Cemetery, Capitol Hill, Mount Vernon, the Lincoln Memorial, the U.S. Supreme Court, the Smithsonian Institution and more. They’ll join more than 2,000 students from across the country—about 150 from Texas—to explore our shared history, meet peers, and develop leadership skills.
“Youth Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Darren Schauer, GVEC General Manager and CEO. “It’s an experience that’s both rewarding and inspiring. We’re excited to sponsor outstanding young leaders from our communities to represent GVEC in Washington, D.C.”
There are plenty of reasons to apply for Youth Tour. For starters, it’s completely free—GVEC covers all travel, lodging, meals and attractions. The week is filled with unforgettable experiences, from touring iconic memorials and worldclass museums to taking in the sights on a dinner cruise along the Potomac River. Delegates form new friendships with peers who share their curiosity and sense of adventure. Along the way, they build leadership skills and gain a firsthand look at how government works through visits and meetings with congressional representatives. To top it all off, this experience is a standout on a college or scholarship application.
To be eligible to apply, the applicant must be a high school sophomore or junior during the 2025– 2026 school year and reside in GVEC’s electric service territory. The applicant’s parent or legal guardian must have an active GVEC electric account in good standing. Applications are being accepted now until January 15, 2026, at 5 p.m.
To learn more about this exciting opportunity and get full application details, visit gvec.org/community/ youth-tour/.
For questions, contact Community Relations Representative Jeff Kerlick at [email protected] or 830-263-4353.
GVEC is a progressive cooperative focused on delivering products and services that empower the people and communities in South Central Texas. A trusted, local partner since 1938, today GVEC provides dependable electricity, high-speed internet, and beyond the meter services like AC/heating, solar and battery storage solutions, and electrician services. The Cooperative proudly serves over 130,000 consumers in surrounding areas through five customer service locations in Cuero, Gonzales, La Vernia, Schertz and Seguin.
