Did you know that the National Rifle Association offers a yearly expenses-paid adventure in citizenship for high school sophomores and juniors, with some very nice scholarships on offer for standout attendees? We do, and the 2020 Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.) application period is open right now...but it closes on Friday, January 24. With just two weeks left, the time to apply for the experience of a lifetime in NRA's backyard, Washington, D.C., we hope you or the outstanding high-schooler in your life takes full advantage of this opportunity. The Y.E.S. program will run from July 13-19, 2020, and the Y.E.S. Class of 2020 will compete for up to $50,000 in college scholarships.
Those interested in attending the summit must submit a completed application form, a high school transcript, a three-page essay on the Second Amendment, a one-page personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. Applications must be postmarked by Friday, Jan. 24, 2020. Attendees will compete for college scholarships based on their leadership skills, debate performances, and participation in discussions on current events. Students may also compete for additional scholarships after the summit by sharing their experience with their 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.
“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 lots 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 an once-in-a-lifetime chance that you need to take if you love American history, culture, people, or politics.”
Y.E.S. develops our 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 from visiting NRA Headquarters to touring historic sites and monuments in the D.C. area and reflecting on the dedicated service of the nation’s military.
For additional information on the 2020 NRA Youth Education Summit, please visit https://yes.nra.org/application/, or call (703) 267-1351.
