Youth Outreach

At Sumter EMC, we believe in nurturing the potential of our youth and empowering them to become leaders of tomorrow. Our commitment to community development goes beyond providing reliable electricity; it extends to fostering the growth and leadership skills of the next generation. That's why we're thrilled to spotlight our Youth Leadership Experience.  

Designed to inspire and educate young minds, the Sumter EMC Youth Leadership Experience is a transformative journey for high school students within our service area. Through this initiative, we aim to instill essential leadership qualities, cultivate teamwork, and ignite a passion for community service.  

What Does the Program Offer?  

The Youth Leadership Experience is a comprehensive and enriching opportunity for students to broaden their horizons and develop vital life skills. Here's what participants can expect:  

• Leadership Workshops: Our program offers interactive workshops facilitated by seasoned leaders from various fields. From communication skills to problem-solving techniques, these sessions equip students with practical tools to excel in leadership roles.  

• Personal Development: Self-discovery is an integral part of leadership. Our program encourages students to explore their strengths, passions, and values, helping them build confidence and resilience.  

• Field Trips and Experiential Learning: Learning extends beyond the classroom. Students embark on exciting field trips, visiting businesses, government institutions, and cultural landmarks, gaining real-world insights into various industries and sectors.  

Why Join the Youth Leadership Experience Program?  

Participating in Sumter EMC's Youth Leadership Experience offers a multitude of benefits:  

• Leadership Skills: Develop crucial leadership qualities that will serve you well in any endeavor.  

• Networking: Connect with mentors, professionals, and like-minded peers who can support your personal and professional growth.  

• Personal Growth: Discover your strengths, passions, and potential while gaining valuable life experiences.  

How to Get Involved  

Are you a high school junior or senior eager to unlock your leadership potential? Join us on this incredible journey! The Youth Leadership Experience is open to students within Sumter EMC's service area. Look for announcements and application details on our website and social media channels.  

At Sumter EMC, we're committed to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Join us in empowering youth, shaping communities, and building a brighter future together. 

For more information, contact Tonya Jones at tonya.jones@sumteremc.com or 229-924-8041 ext. 2210.

2023 Christmas Card Contest Information and Registration Form

Washington Youth Tour

We are thrilled to announce the exceptional young leaders who will represent Sumter EMC as delegates for the prestigious 2024 Washington Youth Tour. Following a rigorous selection process, these four outstanding students have been chosen to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the nation's capital. Please join us in congratulating the 2024 Washington Youth Tour Delegates:  

• Ila Johnson: Ila is a Junior at Southland Academy. She is active in the Spanish Club, FCA, Beta Club, SADD, and One Act Play. She also plays Varsity Softball and Varsity Tennis and is part of Sumter EMC's Youth Leadership Experience.  

• Maggie Irvin: Maggie is a Junior at Lee County High School. She is active in DECA, FBLA, Beta Club, and Younglife. Maggie also participates in Varsity Gymnastics and is on the dance line. Maggie is also a part of Sumter EMC's Youth Leadership Experience.  

• Trey Stewart: Trey is a sophomore at Schley County High School. He is active in FFA, the Marching Band, and Georgia Movie Academy and serves as Secretary of the Student Council.    

• Olivia Vanderwalt: Olivia is a junior at Lee County High School. She is active in FFA, Cross-Country, Track, and the Beta Club.   

These remarkable individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to service within our community. As ambassadors for Sumter EMC, they will have the opportunity to engage with national leaders, explore iconic landmarks, and participate in transformative learning experiences.  

The Washington Youth Tour is more than just a trip; it's an opportunity for these young leaders to gain invaluable insights into our nation's history, government, and culture. Through immersive workshops, meetings with congressional representatives, and interactive sightseeing tours, they will deepen their understanding of civic engagement and the importance of active citizenship.  

We extend heartfelt congratulations to the 2024 Washington Youth Tour Delegates and commend them for their dedication and achievements. We believe they will represent Sumter EMC with distinction and make the most of this extraordinary opportunity.  

To the delegates: seize this moment, embrace every experience, and let your voices be heard. Your journey to Washington, D.C., is just beginning, and we cannot wait to see the incredible impact you will undoubtedly make on your community and beyond.  

Stay tuned for updates and highlights from the 2024 Washington Youth Tour as the delegates embark on this unforgettable adventure. Sumter EMC is proud to support the next generation of leaders and looks forward to witnessing the incredible contributions our delegates will continue to make to our community.  

Congratulations once again to the 2024 Washington Youth Tour Delegates! 

Sumter EMC offers scholarships worth $1,000 each to two seniors accepted at an accredited college or technical school and live in or attend a school in Marion, Schley, Sumter, Webster, Dougherty, Lee, Randolph, Terrell, Chattahoochee, and Stewart counties. 

To apply for the Sumter EMC Scholarship, please complete the application form below and submit the necessary attachments.

Walter Harrison Scholarship

Sumter EMC enters two applications from our membership into a pool of statewide entries each year. Sixteen $1,000 scholarships are up for grabs this year for students in EMC households. High school seniors and undergraduate students attending any vocational school or two- or four-year accredited college or university in Georgia are eligible to apply. 

The scholarships are awarded based on a scored essay, academic achievement, and financial need. Georgia’s EMCs started the scholarship program to honor the late Walter Harrison. Harrison was known in Georgia and nationwide as “Mr. Rural Electrification” for his pioneering efforts in the electrical cooperative industry and his lifelong dedication to improving life in rural areas. 

To be eligible, students must:

• You must be accepted or enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at any accredited two-year or four-year university, college, or vocational-technical institute in Georgia.
• Complete the Walter Harrison application below.
• Write a two-page autobiographical sketch with references to plans and goals.
• Live in a primary residence served by Sumter EMC.

For more information, contact Tonya Jones at tonya.jones@sumteremc.com

FFA Electrification Contest

Sumter EMC is proud to support (along with other Georgia EMCs) participation by local schools in the EMC/FFA Electrification Contest. The wiring contest is a competitive educational program which promotes the safe, efficient use of electrical energy.

For more information, contact Jason Hall, Energy Services Representative for Sumter EMC, or: 

• Click here to visit the Georgia FFA Association website. 
• Click here to view FFA photos 

Young Co-op Couples Conference

Each year Sumter EMC selects a young couple from its service area to represent the Cooperative at the Young Couples Cooperative Conference sponsored by the Georgia Cooperative Council, Inc., the South Carolina Council of Cooperatives, and the Cooperative Council of North Carolina. The goals of this unique three-day conference are:

1. To provide an opportunity for young couples to gain additional knowledge and insight into their cooperatives' economic and service opportunities.
2. To provide an opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences in their cooperatives and communities' leadership needs.
3. To provide an opportunity to make new friends.
4. To find out what young couples think so cooperatives can better serve their needs.

The ultimate purpose is to strengthen the relationship between cooperatives and participating couples. For more information on the conference, contact Tonya Jones.

GHSA State Championships

Sumter EMC joins 29 EMCs across the state to announce a partnership with the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) to sponsor more than 80 state championships during the 2022-2023 season. This season marks the 20th consecutive year Georgia's EMCs have been GHSA sponsors.

Long-time supporters of a variety of programs for students, the sponsorship allows Sumter EMC to support student athletes, parents and the entire athletic community. This year's championship games will feature sports ranging from football to track, riflery to basketball. State championships also include literary competitions such as one-act plays and debate. 

Plan to attend these great events and bring your family! For a complete calendar of events, visit the GHSA web site at www.ghsa.net .