The NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.) is thrilled to announce that it is adding a second session of Y.E.S. in summer 2018. This means that double the number of students will be able to experience this life-changing program and develop into strong leaders in their communities. The 2018 Y.E.S. sessions will be held July 9-15 and July 23-29. Attendees will compete for $55,000 in college scholarships through participation in the program's events. Applications are now being accepted, and must be received by Jan. 12, 2018.
The NRA Youth Education Summit encourages young adults to become active citizens and leaders of tomorrow by learning about the Constitution and Bill of Rights, the federal government and the importance of engaging in civic affairs. Competitive team debates and casual current events discussions 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 meeting with members of Congress and visiting NRA Headquarters to touring historic sites and monuments in the D.C. area and reflecting on the military's defense of American freedoms.
"I would recommend this program to anyone," said former Y.E.S. participant Anna Sommers from Burlington, Wis. "It's an unforgettable experience that can't fully be summed up in words. The friends I made and the knowledge I gained on this trip can be found nowhere else. This trip made me incredibly proud to be an American."
Students who excel in the week's activities through demonstrating strong leadership, public speaking and debate skills will be awarded up to $15,000 in college scholarships at the summit's closing ceremony. Following the summit, students are empowered to return home and share their Y.E.S. experiences with their communities. By creating a portfolio detailing the impact of those efforts, participants can then apply for the Y.E.S. Grand Scholarship—an additional $25,000 in available scholarships. Thanks to Friends of NRA fundraising and grants provided by The NRA Foundation, more than $540,000 in scholarships have been awarded since the creation of Y.E.S. in 1996.
Any high school sophomore or junior in the United States is welcome to apply to Y.E.S. The application process includes a written essay on the Second Amendment, personal statement, transcript affirming a minimum 3.00 grade point average, and three letters of recommendation.
The National Rifle Association launched the Youth Education Summit in 1996 to encourage America's youth to become active citizens at both the national and local levels. More than $540,000 in scholarships has been awarded throughout the program's 21-year history. Funding for Y.E.S. is provided through The NRA Foundation from monies raised by Friends of NRA, a grassroots fundraising program in support of the shooting sports. To begin the application process or learn more about Y.E.S., click here.
