Beltrami Electric Cooperative proudly announces Hunter Wright of Laporte as its Youth Tour representative for 2024. A high school junior at Laporte High School, Hunter is the son of Ryan and Holly Wright. He will join hundreds of high school students representing their cooperatives on an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., June 18-23.

Hunter's selection as the Youth Tour representative exemplifies his outstanding dedication to academics and community service. His application reflected his strong commitment to academics and community volunteerism and his essay revealed a good understanding of the benefits of being a member of an electric cooperative.

"The Youth Tour is a significant opportunity for students like Hunter to broaden their horizons and engage with the legislative process firsthand," remarked Angela Lyseng, Youth Tour coordinator for Beltrami Electric Cooperative. "We are delighted to send a student to Washington, D.C. to partake in this enriching experience."

Beyond its educational aspects, the Youth Tour is a platform for students to forge lasting friendships and develop vital leadership skills. Participants will undergo leadership training, engage in meaningful dialogues with their U.S. Representatives and Senators, and tour memorials and museums in Washington, D.C.

For over 57 years, the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour has empowered high school students to explore the nation's capital and gain valuable insights into the cooperative movement. Students are selected for this prestigious program by their local electric cooperative, exemplifying the cooperative principles of community involvement and youth empowerment.