Youth Programs
Children’s Book Challenge
Fourth and fifth-grade students across South Carolina are invited to write and illustrate their very own children’s book—all about the importance of electricity and cooperatives!
Why Participate?
• Winning entries receive cash prizes
• Local winners advance to the statewide contest for a chance to be recognized at the State House in Columbia
• Top books will even be published and shared with schools across South Carolina
How to Get Started:
• Register online: https://scbookchallenge.com
• After registering, you’ll receive contact info for an AEC employee who can answer questions and help you along the way.
• Service from an electric cooperative is not required to participate
Electrical Safety Magic Show
Each year, Aiken Electric hosts an Electrical Safety Magic Show for local students at schools in our service area—because learning about electrical safety is easier to remember when it’s fun!
What to Expect:
• A magician performs exciting tricks that also teach important electrical safety lessons
• Kids learn how to stay safe around power lines, outlets, and everyday electricity
• An unforgettable mix of education and entertainment
The Safety Magic Show is just one of the ways AEC invests in our youth, helping to build safe and informed communities.
To sign up, please call the AEC Marketing Department at 803-649-6245.
Scholarship & Youth Leadership Trips
Scholarships
Aiken Electric annually gives several college scholarships, including a $2,000 Trustee Scholarship and two $1,000 Touchstone Energy awards – one for a student enrolling in a four-year college and one for a student enrolling in a two-year technical school. The primary residence of the applicant must have an active account with Aiken Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Youth Leadership Trips
Every year, Aiken Electric sponsors local high school students for the Washington Youth Tour, an all-expense paid, week-long trip to our nation’s capital where they see our government in action, experience the history of our nation and learn more about electric cooperatives. We also sponsor high school students for the Cooperative Youth Summit, an exploration of our state’s capital and its historic city. The primary residence of the applicant must have an active account with Aiken Electric Cooperative, Inc