Every summer, students from electric cooperatives all over gather in Washington, D.C., for a week unlike any other. They tour our nation’s capital, meet elected officials, build friendships with students from across Texas and the United States, and gain a firsthand understanding of leadership, public service, and the cooperative difference.
In June 2026, GVEC proudly sponsored three outstanding delegates on the 2026 Government-in-Action Youth Tour: Leila Garcia of Marion, Colette Forsberg of Cibolo, and Reese Chilek of Yoakum/Shiner.
While they returned home with plenty of photos and souvenirs, they also came back with something much more valuable—new perspectives, unforgettable memories, and a greater appreciation for the opportunities available to young people willing to step outside their comfort zones.
History Comes to Life
For all three delegates, visiting the monuments, memorials, and museums transformed places they’d only seen in textbooks into something real. Whether standing beneath the towering Lincoln Memorial, walking through the halls of the U.S. Capitol, or reflecting at the World War II and Vietnam Veterans memorials, each stop offered a deeper understanding of the people and events that shaped our nation.
But Youth Tour is about more than sightseeing. Throughout the week, students explored what it means to be engaged citizens, responsible leaders, and active members of their communities.
An Honor to Remember | Colette Forsberg
One of the most meaningful moments of the trip belonged to Forsberg, who was one of only four Texas Youth Tour delegates selected to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. The honor came with a great deal of responsibility, and Colette described it as one of the most humbling experiences of her life.
Surrounded by history and tradition, she said the ceremony reinforced the sacrifices made by generations of service members and reminded her that freedom is never something to take for granted. It was a moment she knows she’ll carry with her for years to come.
Finding Confidence Through New Experiences | Reese Chilek
For Chilek, the Youth Tour was an opportunity to experience things she had never imagined. Meeting students from across Texas and the nation, exploring Washington, D.C., and stepping into places where history has unfolded for generations broadened her perspective in ways she hadn’t expected.
She shared that the experience helped build her confidence, encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone, and reminded her that saying “yes” to new opportunities often leads to the most rewarding experiences. By the end of the week, the strangers she met on the first day had become lasting friends.
Discovering New Possibilities | Leila Garcia
For Garcia, Youth Tour was equal parts history, adventure and inspiration. One of her favorite memories came after meeting with congressional staff, when she and a small group of delegates were invited on a private behind-the-scenes tour of the U.S. Capitol. After their guide was unexpectedly called away, the students found themselves navigating historic underground corridors before eventually emerging at the Library of Congress. “It felt like we were in National Treasure,” she said. “We were trying to find our way through the historical maze underneath Capitol Hill.” The experience also reinforced Leila’s interest in agriculture and opened her eyes to how internships on Capitol Hill can help students from many fields better understand the legislative process and make a lasting impact on rural communities.
She returned home with new friendships, greater appreciation for government, and an even bigger excitement about the opportunities that lie ahead.
More Than a Trip
While each student’s experience was different, they all returned home with something in common: a greater appreciation for leadership, service, and the importance of becoming involved in their communities.
That’s exactly what the Government-in-Action Youth Tour is designed to do. Sponsored by Texas Electric Cooperatives, the program gives high school students an opportunity to learn how our government works, discover the cooperative business model in action, and develop leadership skills that will benefit them long after graduation.
For GVEC, supporting area students to participate in Youth Tour is one more way we’re investing in the future of the communities we serve—not only by delivering reliable electricity and essential services, but by helping develop tomorrow’s leaders.
Know a high school sophomore or junior who enjoys meeting new people, wants to develop leadership skills, or has an interest in government, history, or community service? Have them learn more and apply on our Youth Tour page.
