Co-op Youth Conference

Each summer, Wiregrass Electric Cooperative (WEC) joins other rural electric cooperatives, the Federal Land Bank, the Dairy Farmers of America, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and Auburn University in sponsoring the Alabama Cooperative Youth Conference. The 2010 conference is July 7-9.

Pictured here are the 2009 Youth Conference students sponsored by WEC: Taylor Fortson of Slocomb, daughter of Kevin and Gina Fortson; Alma Caffy of Florala, daughter of Ted and Lesa Caffy; Cole Kimbro of Hartford, son of Chris and Pamela Kimbro; Joey Collins of Hartford, son of Michael and Jennifer Reynolds; and John Cosgrove of Hartford, son of John and Kazumi Cosgrove. 

This three-day conference gives youth in attendance the opportunity to study and understand our economic system and the important role cooperatives play in it. The conference also offers numerous opportunities for youth leadership development. While at the conference, students learn about the cooperative way of doing business and attend special sessions emphasizing citizenship, leadership and possible future careers with various businesses participating in the conference. Many recreational activities are available to attending students, including: swimming, boating, table tennis, basketball, rock climbing, indoor games, to name a few.

WEC sponsors several high school-aged youth each year to this three-day, all-expense paid conference. If you are a 9th or 10th grader, interested in leadership, business, economics and/or agriculture, you may apply to be considered as one of the six selected representatives from Southern Pine Electric Cooperative. Students selected may also be recommended by their county extension agents, agricultural education instructors, high school counselors or other community leaders. Applicants are reviewed by a committee of the Alabama Council of Cooperatives, whose decision on acceptance for attendance is final. Applicants who are selected to attend the conference are notified in writing by Wiregrass Electric.

As with all conferences Wiregrass Electric sponsors, all expenses are paid for the students. Applications may be obtained at any Cooperative office or online. If you have questions concerning the Alabama Cooperative Youth Conference, contact Cary Hatcher, Manager of Member Relations, at 334-944-7115 or email.

Youth Conference Brochure and Application