Youth Leadership Challenge
Each year, we send selected high school juniors from our service territory to the Michael F. Peterson Youth Leadership Challenge. Together, along with students from other cooperatives, they practice leadership skills, learn from inspirational speakers, and participate in group activities. Several of the activities include a ropes course, talent show, sports/games, and a dance. This is a great opportunity to make unforgettable relationships and develop lifelong skills.
Youth Leadership Challenge Dates
July 8-12, 2024
Deadline to Apply
February 29, 2024
Applications are closed for the 2024 Challenge.
The Legacy of Michael F. Peterson
In 2016, the Youth Leadership Challenge was named in honor of Michael F. Peterson for his contributions to the leadership program.
Michael F. Peterson was raised in Roosevelt and worked as a lineman for Moon Lake Electric Association. He was instrumental in bringing lights to the Union High tennis courts. He later served as a statewide manager for the Utah Rural Electric Association. In this position he served on countless boards, and organized/directed the youth leadership conference each summer.
Among other things, Mike was known for his talent to motivate and teach, his gratitude, and his ability to love others. He would often urge others to "try a little harder," "look beyond yourself," and "give to those who need your help." His leadership abilities and sincere kindness have influenced and blessed countless lives. He left behind a legacy that our youth now have the opportunity to learn from and follow.
i had such a great time at the youth leadership challenge... i wish i could go back, it was a week to remember!
- brooklyn bell
i had a great time at the program it was a blast...the speaker's were awesome, it had great inspiring stories and the activities were great.
- jacob m. houlihan
the michael f. peterson youth leadership challenge has been an overall amazing and fulfilling experience that i highly recommend.
- jaxon thomas
my experience was a very enjoyable one... i would 100% recommend this to anyone who would be interested in attending.
- tice sorensen
i honestly experienced a lot... i've made amazing friends and learned amazing things.
- alexa mckee
my experience at the youth leadership challenge was fun...i learned a lot from the coping with anxiety class, the lessons in leadership, and professional life skills.
- thomas rasmussen
i enjoyed facing my fears with others at the ropes course and learning important life lessons from the various instructors throughout the week.
- calia williamsen
each speaker had their own great backstory and a lesson to take away from it. it helped me realize that great things don't come out of a factory.
- kyson peatross
