Government in Action

Students Step Into the Heart of Government

Students visit the Supreme Court. During free time, the students were fierce competitors at bowling.

Each year, electric cooperatives across Florida give local students a unique opportunity to step into the heart of state government through the annual Youth Tour. This year, Escambia River Electric Cooperative (EREC) was proud to take students representing 3 local high schools to Tallahassee to participate in this educational and eye-opening experience.

Youth Tour allows students to see firsthand the workings of state government. During their visit to the state capital, students toured historic buildings, met with legislative staff, and witnessed the lawmaking process in action. From watching committee meetings to learning how bills move through the Legislature, students walked away with a much deeper understanding of how decisions made in Tallahassee affect their own communities.

Brea is interviewed on her experience so far on Youth Tour.

In addition to their time at the capital, students enjoyed opportunities for fun. They spent an evening playing laser tag, bowling, and competing in arcade games, giving them a chance to unwind and build friendships with students from other cooperatives across the state.

Youth Tour is an educational experience but also a chance for students to connect, grow, and make memories.

By providing this front-row seat to the legislative process—combined with welldeserved fun—Youth Tour sparks interest in public service, leadership and civic engagement.

EREC is proud to support programs like Youth Tour that invest in the next generation of leaders and give students valuable, real-world experiences they’ll carry into their futures.