The Honorary Youth Delegate Experience is designed to cultivate knowledgeable, passionate young advocates who understand the Grange's legislative process or desire to learn it, and who feel empowered to shape the future of rural America. This program honors the legacy of John Trimble — a dedicated Grange leader who believed deeply in education, civic responsibility, and youth involvement.

Participants will have the opportunity to serve as an Honorary Youth Delegate at the National Grange Convention, gaining first-hand knowledge of policy development, debate, and decision-making within the Grange. Individuals will be selected at the National Grange convention to serve the National Grange for one year as participants in the Honorary Youth Delegate Experience. They will serve the National Grange throughout the year, culminating in their year at the National Grange Convention, where they will serve as an Honorary Youth Delegate. Throughout their year, they will learn and participate in Grange legislative work through committee assignments, mentorship, and hands-on advocacy engagement.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

National Grange Convention Experience

• Attend the National Grange Convention as the Honorary Youth Delegate
• Sit with the delegate body during resolutions hearings and discussions.
• Participate in committee sessions, workshops, and legislative briefings, prior to and during the National Grange Convention.
• Provide input in discussions when youth or young adult perspectives are valuable.
• Develop a written reflection or summary report following Convention participation.

Year-Long Legislative Engagement

Throughout the year of engagement, the participant will:

• Serve on at least one National Grange Legislative or Policy Committee.
• Participate in virtual meetings and work sessions as assigned.
• Assist in reviewing resolutions, researching policy topics, or preparing youth-friendly summaries.
• Receive mentorship from National Grange leadership, staff, or appointed committee managers.
• Prepare a mid-year update on learning, involvement, and advocacy efforts.

Eligibility

• Must be a Grange Youth or Young Adult member (recommended ages 18-25).
  
• Demonstrated interest in policy, civic engagement, debate, or public service.
  
• Active involvement in a local, and or State Grange.
• Commitment to completing year-long expectations.

Application Requirements

• Completed application questionnaire
• Short personal statement on why legislative advocacy matters to rural America and the Grange
• Letter of recommendation from State Youth Director, Community Grange leader, or State Grange President.
• Agreement to attend the National Grange Convention and actively participate throughout the program year.

Applications must be received by September 1, 2026