The WH and WH Security offices are closed Friday, July 3 for the Fourth fo July. Regular business hours will resume Monday, July 6. Pay your bill or report an outage any time online.
Youth Tour
Embark on an incredible journey of leadership and civic engagement on an all-expenses-paid opportunity for high school juniors. Sponsored by WH, the Minnesota Rural Electric Association (MREA), and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), this program offers a unique chance to explore American history, deepen your understanding of government, and develop essential leadership skills alongside students from across the nation.
Upcoming Tour Information:
Travel Dates:
June 15-20, 2026
Deadline to Apply:
Applications must be submitted to WH by March 1, 2026. The selection process begins with a review of applications and ends with interviews for the finalists.
Discovering D.C. with Wright-Hennepin
During this inspiring week in Washington, D.C., you'll delve into history, engage with leaders, and connect with peers from across the country. Here's a glimpse of what awaits you:
Historic Site Visits:
Explore iconic landmarks like Arlington National Cemetery, Capitol Hill, the White House, and the Smithsonian Institution, gaining a deeper appreciation for our nation's heritage.
Meetings with Elected Officials:
Meet with Minnesota's political representatives, learning firsthand about local and national government and the vital role electric cooperatives play.
Leadership Workshops:
Participate in engaging workshops designed to hone your leadership abilities and civic awareness.
Cultural Activities & National Networking:
Enjoy diverse cultural experiences and forge lasting friendships with over 1,800 high school students from cooperatives nationwide.
"The D.C. Youth Tour is an amazing opportunity to learn new things, grow as a person, and create future change. There is so much opportunity for learning on the Youth Tour. I could not think of a better way to experience Washington D.C. I’ve made priceless memories and met amazing people....This trip has created future opportunities and opened doors for me. I know for sure that the Youth Tour trip and all the people I met along the way will have a lasting impact on me for years to come."
Bethany Yu, 2022, Wayzata High School
"The Youth Tour to Washington, D.C. was more than just a trip; it was an eye-opening experience that broadened my understanding of our nation’s history, government, and culture. Meeting our senators, touring the Capitol, exploring the memorials, and enjoying the city’s delights were all parts of an unforgettable journey. It reinforced the importance of being an informed and active citizen."
Nick Olson, 2024, Annandale High School
“The students, chaperones, and every representative we met along the way truly made this experience what it was. Before going on the trip, I knew I’d have incredible opportunities to learn and grow, but this tour exceeded every expectation I had. The friendships formed, the connections made, and the knowledge gained have shaped me into a stronger leader and advocate for rural America. I now know that my voice matters — and that it can be heard.”
Madie Barnes, 2025, St. Michael – Albertville High School
Learn More
Ready to discover more about this life-changing experience?
- Hear from WH's 2024 Youth Tour delegate as they share their firsthand account of the trip.
- Discover 10 compelling reasons to apply for Youth Tour and become a part of this incredible tradition!
Apply Now!
Don't miss your chance to be part of the next Youth Tour! This is an unparalleled opportunity to grow, learn, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Applications will open this fall for 2027.