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Kari Jordan and Caleb Meeker, students from Eminence High School, were among 96 Missouri high schoolers selected to attend the Missouri Electric Cooperative’s CYCLE (Cooperative Youth Conference and Leadership Experience) program.
The engaging four-day event took place July 15–18, 2025, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Jefferson City and was sponsored by Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative based in West Plains, Missouri.
A Hands-On Political and Leadership Experience
Now in its 22nd year, the CYCLE program offers students a firsthand look at politics, cooperative business models, and leadership skills.
The experience included nationally recognized speakers and interactive sessions at the Missouri State Capitol, where students learned how legislation is created and passed.
To deepen their understanding of electric cooperatives, attendees participated in team-building activities, such as the competitive “Build a Cooperative” game, allowing them to simulate forming and managing a cooperative business.
Powerful Messages from Rachel’s Challenge
A standout moment of the conference was a moving presentation from Rachel’s Challenge, which recounts the inspiring life of Rachel Scott, the first victim of the Columbine school shooting.
The program encourages students to be positive role models and to foster kindness and inclusivity in their schools and communities.
Interactive Learning and Field Trips
Students also visited the Missouri State Penitentiary, observed a live powerline safety demonstration, and explored electric vehicles at Central Electric Power Cooperative’s headquarters.
The program combined serious learning with entertainment by including a day trip to St. Louis, where participants toured the City Museum, admired the iconic St. Louis Arch, and wrapped up the day with games and dining at Dave & Buster’s.
National Recognition and Community Impact
Celebrated for its excellence, the CYCLE program has earned the National Community Youth Service Award as the top youth initiative among electric cooperatives in the United States.
The program not only educates but also builds lasting connections and develops future leaders within Missouri’s communities.
The Missouri Electric Cooperative’s CYCLE program continues to offer a powerful mix of education, leadership training, and fun, leaving a lasting impression on students like Kari and Caleb.
By engaging youth in meaningful experiences, Missouri’s electric co-ops are investing in a stronger, more informed generation.