Applications to attend the 2020 National NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.)—an expenses-paid, weeklong educational experience in Washington, D.C. for high school sophomores and juniors—are now being accepted. The annual event takes place this year July 13 to 19 and attendees compete for up to $50,000 in college scholarships. Deadline for application submission is Jan. 24.
“The Y.E.S. program is a weeklong marathon of life-changing experiences,” said former Y.E.S. participant Aiden Thomson from Tennessee. “You see the most important relics of America’s history, visit its most iconic government buildings and make a lot of friends along the way. You meet like-minded people from all over the country and learn there are a million different viewpoints to consider. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance that you need to take if you love American history, culture, people or politics.”
Y.E.S. develops the next generation of leaders by encouraging them to become active citizens in their local communities and beyond. Students learn about the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the federal government and the importance of engaging in civic affairs. Competitive team debates and casual discussions on current events highlight the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of participants while fostering fellowship and respect. The program’s nonstop agenda also includes exciting activities and opportunities that include visiting NRA headquarters, touring historic sites and monuments and reflecting on the dedicated service of the nation’s military.
Attendees will compete for college scholarships based on their leadership skills, debate performance and participation in discussions on current events. Students may also compete for additional scholarships after the summit by sharing their experience with the communities. Thanks to Friends of NRA fundraising and grants provided by the NRA Foundation, more than $675,000 in scholarships have been awarded since Y.E.S. launched in 1996.
Application forms and full details are available online.