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Despite flight delays, rainy weather, and summer heat, West Florida Electric Cooperative's (WFEC's) 2025 Youth Tour delegates, Bella Coley (Blountstown High School) and Ian Hatcher (Malone School) enjoyed an unforgettable trip to Washington, D.C., this June.

"This was the first time I'd ever experienced flying, and with that, delays and cancellations. From flights changing twice to us spending the night in a hotel stuck in Tallahassee, it allowed all of use a chance to get to know each other better and become close before even reaching D.C.," said Coley.

Once they arrived, our students spent a week learning how our government works, the role electric cooperatives play in local communities, and the importance of civic involvement. They toured famous monuments and memorials, including the Jefferson, Lincoln, and World War II, Viet Nam Memorials, as well as the Holocaust Museum, Mount Vernon, and Arlington National Cemetery.

Both students said the Holocaust Museum had a powerful impact on them. "Talking to a Holocaust survivor really moved me," said Hatcher. Bella added, "Talking with a Holocaust survivor truly impacted me. Seeing movies and reading books about the Holocaust and what people went through teaches you a lot, but walking through exhibits and seeing their shoes, clothes, hearing their voices, and seeing a room full of lights representing children who lost their lives brings a new depth of understanding of the true hardships the Jews and the people who helped them went through during this time."

The group also attended a Washington Nationals baseball game - another first for both Bella and Ian. 

"Being able to see the halls of government and so many people doing exactly what I want to do in the future really impacted me," said Hatcher. "Talking with the co-ops' lobbyist and getting his advice was one of my favorite experiences."

During Youth Day, students from across the country gathered to hear from motivational speaker and Paralympic gold medalist Mike Schlappi, who inspired them with his story of overcoming adversity. Bella reflected on the experience - the speakers were vulnerable and real. They helped me see that challenges are a part of life - and that how we face them matters most.

"This experience was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I am so blessed and beyond thankful to West Florida Electric and its members. I learned so much about our nation's history, about rural electric cooperatives and their importance, and more so, I learned several life lessons about overcoming challenges, communication, and leadership. Now I am able to take what I've learned and share it with others in my community," said Coley.

Ian said the trip confirmed his interest in political science and helped him connect with other students who share his goals. " I learned how valuable it is to be surrounded by positive, like-minded people in a positive atmosphere."

The Youth Tour is more than just a trip - it's an opportunity for students to grow. Through new friendships, thought-provoking experiences, and direct engagement with our nation's history and democratic process, students come home with a broader perspective and renewed purpose. For both Bella and Ian, the journey offered a chance to step outside their comfort zones connect with others from across the country, and return inspired to serve their communities in meaningful ways. Interested in Youth Tour? The program is open to high school juniors whose parents or guardians are members of West Florida Electric Cooperative. Each fall, local high schools select a representative for the State Youth Tour.

The selected representatives then go on to compete for the slots available for the National Youth Tour trip. If you'll be a junior during the 2025-2026 school year, talk to your school counselor or contact Candace Croft, WFEC's Communications and Public Relations Coordinator, at ccroft@westflorida.coop to learn more.