Youth Programs

Scholarships

Applications are now open for the 2025-2026 Scholarships. Deadline to apply is Monday, January 12, 2026.

Benton REA will award up to eight scholarships to graduating high school seniors whose parents are Benton REA members and whose main residence is within Benton, Lewis or Yakima counties.

Academic Scholarships

Academic scholarship recipients are awarded $8,000 over four years of their continuing education. To apply, students must submit a completed application, a copy of their transcript, a description of involvement, a 500-word essay and bibliography.

2026 academic application

Trade & Tech Scholarships

$4000 Trade & Technical scholarships are awarded in equal installments based on the duration of curriculum. Scholarship must be used at a technical or trade institution or a pre-approved certification program or associate in applied science program at a community college or university.

2026 trade & tech application

Line School Scholarships

One scholarship will be awarded to a high school graduate who is attending line school. Recipient will receive $8,000 paid directly to the selected line school.



2026 line school application

Youth Tour

Applications are now closed for the 2025 Youth Tour. They will re-open this fall.

If you're a high school sophomore or junior and looking for something fun and to do in the summer, the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour may be just the thing for you! This is an all-inclusive paid trip by Benton REA and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

NRECA plans activities that bring together 2,000 high school students from across the country. You'll meet new people and build friendships that can last a lifetime. You will have ample opportunity to develop your communication and leadership skills. We encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Eligible students must be children of Benton REA members residing in Benton, Lewis, or Yakima counties. Each student must meet eligibility requirements and submit an essay on why they want to attend Youth Tour and what they expect to gain from the experience.