Learning Journeys

Wisconsin Young People Go to Washington DC

Bringing Civics to Life 

There’s nothing more powerful than connecting classroom learning with real-world experience. During his 24 years in the U.S. Senate, Herb Kohl welcomed countless Wisconsin students to Washington, D.C., witnessing firsthand their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning about our nation's capital—the heart of American democracy and history.

Today, Herb Kohl Philanthropies continues that legacy by supporting organizations that provide transformative travel opportunities for students who may not otherwise have access. Through immersive, educational experiences, young people gain a front-row seat to civics in action—deepening their understanding of government, democracy, and their own potential as engaged citizens.

We fund Learning Journeys, organized by independent sponsoring organizations, that give youth the chance to visit Washington, D.C. These journeys offer more than just a trip—they provide hands-on civic education, leadership development, and opportunities for personal growth. Students return with knowledge they can apply in the classroom and life skills that foster independence and responsibility.

Each Learning Journey is customized to suit the age, needs, and schedules of participating groups. Trips are available during the Fall, Spring, and Summer, with all costs covered, including travel, lodging, meals and snacks, educational materials, exhibit admissions, and chaperone support. By investing in these experiences, we help students connect learning with lived experience—nurturing informed, confident leaders for tomorrow.

Please take the following information into consideration before applying:

  • Only schools or youth-serving organizations that are qualified 501c3 non-profit entities may apply.
  • Schools/Organizations serving students who live in high concentration area of poverty and who qualify for free and/or reduced lunch are given priority.
  • The DC Learning Journey is intended to augment specific curriculum and classroom learning and when applicable, reinforce leadership development. Therefore, sponsoring organizations should establish specific curriculum/classroom work and/or leadership development progression, and explain how those activities will be implemented, before a learning journey is awarded.
  • We screen for duplication: for example, students who have already participated in a Kohl Philanthropies sponsored learning journey to Washington DC through their school will not be eligible to participate in a second (Kohl Philanthropies sponsored) learning journey through a youth serving organization (and vice versus).
  • The minimum number needed in a sponsoring organization’s traveling group is typically 45 people. The number of chaperones depends upon the age(s) of participating students and experience of the group traveling.
  • Actual dates of travel are flexible and selected by applicant.
  • College tours and/or campus visits are prioritized in the travel itinerary.
  • Past award does not guarantee future travel
  • Here is a sample itinerary

Organizations/schools interested in having a learning journey supported for their youth should APPLY HERE.