Building New Leaders

Developing youth doesn’t happen by accident; it happens through intentional investment, consistent mentorship, and providing meaningful opportunities. At FreeState, we recognize how powerful it can be when the next generation is given the chance to explore leadership, service and personal growth in an environment meant to be supportive.

As FreeState’s communications manager, I’ve been coordinating youth programs for the past decade, and I’ve had the privilege of watching students in our territory discover confidence they didn’t even know they had, build skills and form connections that shape their futures. These programs are not just activities to fill time; they are structured pathways that help youth get engaged and become capable members of our communities.

One question I am often asked is “How affordable are these youth programs?”

The answer is often surprising to members. When you break it down, it costs only 45 cents per member each year. We’re not just funding programs, we’re cultivating leadership, strengthening communities and helping the next generation realize their potential.

I have chaperoned the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour trip to Washington, D.C., the statewide conference (during the pandemic), and the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. It has been an incredible experience to see youth connect the dots to leadership through their cooperative, to hear them find a voice they didn’t know was there, and to watch confidence blossom with a little encouragement. I can tell you firsthand that the return on investment shows up in countless ways. The youth who have gone through these programs have come home with improved civic engagement, stronger communication skills and a greater sense of belonging. These outcomes are not just beneficial to the student, but to their schools, families, communities and beyond.

In the May 2026 issue of Kansas Country Living, you’ll meet the next two students who will represent your cooperative this summer. I hope you will take a moment to learn more about them and maybe encourage students in your life to think about taking advantage of opportunities like these.

When we invest even a small amount into youth programming, we send a powerful message: you matter, your future matters, and we believe in your ability to lead.