Community Electric Cooperative sends three standout students on a life-changing week of learning and leadership in the nation’s capital.
A Trip with a Purpose
In today’s busy and sometimes confusing political world, it’s more important than ever for young people to know how government works, how it affects everyday Americans, and how they can help shape it. That’s why three high school students from Community Electric Cooperative’s service area joined the 2025 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., this June.
Meet Our Local Delegates
Ava Joyner, Will Partin, and Jailyn Snipe were among hundreds of students from across the country who spent a week exploring, learning, and making memories in the nation’s capital. They visited Capitol Hill and spoke with a member of Congress. They discovered how rural electric cooperatives serve their communities. They toured monuments, enjoyed a Washington Nationals baseball game, and made new friends from other states.
Ava attends Suffolk Christian Academy in Suffolk. Will is a student at Stonebridge School in Chesapeake, and Jailyn goes to Lakeland High School in Suffolk. All three come from Community Electric Cooperative member-owner families and earned this special trip at no cost to them.
Leadership in Action
One of the biggest highlights was Ava being selected to represent Virginia on the NRECA’s Youth Leadership Council. She joined 44 other students from across the country back in Washington for hands-on workshops, team-building, and meetings with cooperative leaders.
Jessica Parr, Community Electric Cooperative’s Manager of Communications, said, “This week was amazing! Our students made the most of every moment, learned so much about government
and cooperatives, and had fun along the way. They made memories that will help shape them into great citizens and leaders.”
Parr and Ryan Hewitt served as chaperones for the trip.
“The Youth Tour is packed with lessons, laughter, and friendships,” Parr added. “When students like Jailyn, Will, and Ava jump in with both feet, they come home with new confidence and a deeper respect for how co-ops power our communities. I’m so proud of all three of them. And Ava’s family should be extra proud of her for being chosen for the Youth Leadership Council!”
More Opportunities Ahead
The NRECA Youth Tour is one of three important parts of Community Electric Cooperative’s Youth Program. The other two are the Day in the Life of a Lineman event at CEC’s headquarters and the Virginia Institute on Cooperative Education, held each spring in the Shenandoah Mountains.
Applications for next year’s Youth Program open on September 1. To learn more, visit the Community section of our website at https://www.comelec.coop/community/youth-programs/.