WINNEMUCCA - Torrey Nash Herrera, who is a junior at Lowry High School, has been nominated three years in a row to the People to People Ambassador Program to Australia, which is coming up this summer. His only problem is that he has never been able to attend the program for lack of finances to pay the tuition. Herrera is reaching out to the community for any help he can get.
In a letter to the Humboldt Sun, Herrera describes the program and what he hopes to get from it:
"The People to People program promotes international understanding while building leadership skills among America's youth. The 17-day experience includes meetings with government officials, interaction with other students my age, educational activities and home stays with host families. Students are nominated, interviewed and evaluated before their acceptance. I am honored to have been selected. Personally, I would like to learn and experience the people, culture and all I can in the Australian outback, cities and ocean coast."
"Through this opportunity I plan on returning with a better understanding of how others think and have the means to communicate this with people in my community. People to People was founded in 1956 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. He believed that if people from different cultures could come together in peace and friendship, so eventually would countries. Since its founding, People to People has launched many international programs, including Sister Cities and Project HOPE."
Herrera said that the program tuition is $7,000, which includes transportation, accommodations, meals and educational activities.
"There are some other added costs for study classes to get the most of the experience, but the tuition is my most important hurdle. I have earned $3,000, but I am a little concerned that I may not make it in time," he stated.
Herrera held yard sales on Feb. 4 and Feb. 11 at Country Financial and is now halfway toward his goal. He said he is appreciative of all the help he has received to date.
"Friends, family and businesses have been generous and I would like to thank everyone for their support," he said.
Herrera stated that he is also trying to figure in a taco feed and raffle. In addition, Big R has donated a saddle to raffle.
Herrera stated that since 2001 he has been very active with the Boy Scouts. He earned money for his pack and the Arrow of Light in Cub Scouts. Herrera earned his Eagle in 2009 in Boy Scouts and continues to serve as a Scoutmasters Junior Assistant.
He also teaches classical guitar and is president of the LEOs.
One of Herrera's future goals is to pursue a degree in engineering in college. For the near future, he really wants to participate in the Australia trip.
Herrera said that his program tuition is due May 1. Anyone wishing to submit financial contributions on his behalf may do so at the following address:
Ref. Torrey Herrera, Delegate # 10140664, Boomerang program
Mail to: Office of Admissions, People to People Ambassador Programs,
P.O. Box 34902, Seattle, WA 98124-1902.
Herrera also welcomes anyone having further questions to call him at (775) 623-4833.
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