Miss Lakes Region Megan Lyman raising funds for trip to Nicaragua (1X)

GILFORD — Miss Lakes Region 2012, Megan Lyman of Gilford, will be traveling to Nicaragua on January 7 as part of a delegation from Outreach360, formerly known as Orphanage Outreach. She will be part of a team of 10 people from New England College and is asking for donations to aid in the organization's work.

"I am taking a big step toward my dream of inspiring people all around the world by traveling to Nicaragua, putting my college education to the test," said Lyman. "While there I will spend 10 hours each day teaching less-fortunate children how to read and write in English. I’m extreme excited to travel with my fellow college students and have to opportunity to use teaching methods I’ve studied the past three years at New England College, where I will be receiving a degree in Elementary and Special Education."

Lyman said she dedicated the money she earned this past summer from waitressing to cover her trip expenses but would also like to raise money locally to donate to the Outreach360 program.

Outreach360’s mission is to be a world class provider of international service-learning opportunities, providing a consistent and predict-able volunteer experience, surprising and delighting volunteers with a powerful cultural experience and the ability to make a significant difference.

"Outreach360 has been working with disadvantaged children, families and communities since 1994," said Lyman. I have chosen to make a difference with these children by volunteering my time and by raising funds. By fund raising I am not only trying to make the trip possible, but also spread awareness about the issues that I’m passionate about. Getting others involved is the best way to make a difference in the world. I believe one of the blessings we’ve been given is living in a wealthy country, surrounded by people with resources, who although may not have the same desire or time to volunteer abroad, are still interested in making an impact."

Donations are tax deductible for U.S. taxpayers and receipts will be provided via e-mail. They may be made online at www.outreach360.org/meganlyman or in person at the Gilford Village Store. A donation jar is located on the store counter.

"Donations are greatly appreciated from me, my family, and surely the people I will meet along my journey to Nicaragua," added Lyman. "Thank you for helping me help others."