2026 Youth Tour Essay Contest Rules 

2026 Youth Tour Essay Contest Application 

ATTENTION JUNIORS: YOU COULD WIN A FREE TRIP TO WASHINGTON D.C.!

Win the adventure of a lifetime; travel to Washington, D.C. to see historic monuments, and memorials - all for free! Three winners of BREC’s Youth Tour Essay Contest will join delegates from across Missouri and the U.S., to experience our nation’s capital. During their week-long stay delegates will attend informative sessions with top co-op and governmental leaders, tour the Smithsonian Museums, and meet with U.S. Representatives and Senators.

What do you have to lose? Just follow the guidelines, write an essay and send it in. Ask your Junior Class English teacher for entry forms, visit brec.coop or call BREC at 1-800-392-4711.

Who Can Enter?  Every high school junior attending school or living in the BREC service area. Eligible Schools: Advance, Arcadia Valley, Bunker, Clearwater, Delta, Fredericktown, Greenville, Leopold, Lesterville, Marquand, Meadow Heights, Oak Ridge, South Iron, So. Reynolds County and Woodland

How to Enter: Submit an original essay (500-1000 words total, must write about part 1 & part 2) on the topic:

Black River Electric Cooperative believes in the importance of investing in young people who will become future members of BREC and leaders in their communities.

Part 1: Research BREC’s 87-year history. In your opinion, what is the most impactful aspect about who BREC is and what it does?

Part 2: Explain what leadership roles you currently have (with school, family, community, etc.) and how this essay opportunity will help you continue to be a leader in the future.

Three students will be awarded trips to Washington, D.C. Three 2nd place winners will attend the Cooperative Youth Conference and Leadership Experience (CYCLE) in Jefferson City and three 3rd place winners will earn $100 each. For more information, see your Junior Class English instructor or call BREC at 1-800-392-4711.

View the Youth Tour Highlight Video: