WASHINGTON, D.C. – Peace Corps Volunteer Jon Martin thinks his fellow Volunteers deserve their place among the most rugged outdoorsmen, and he has found a unique outlet to gain them acclaim — an Outside magazine contest.

Outside recently announced that Martin is one of four winners of their "Make It Better" contest. Martin, a 32-year-old Volunteer in Micronesia, entered the Timberland-Smartwool sponsored contest featured in Outside to celebrate the magazine's 30th anniversary. An entry ballot appeared in the October and November 2006 issues asking readers about their interests, inspirations, what they would change in the world, and their efforts in making the world a better place.

Realizing the positive impact he makes every day as a Peace Corps Volunteer, Martin decided to mail in his ballot. "Outside magazine and Timberland made the cutout for the puzzle, and with the Peace Corps' help, I filled the space," he said.

Reflecting on his decision to become a Volunteer, Martin said: "I've only made a leap so many others have, and more importantly, that so many others will. Hopefully someone out there is waiting to take the step to become a Peace Corps Volunteer and will be inspired to do so not because of my name, but the 'Peace Corps' written after it."

In addition to being featured in the January issue, Timberland-Smartwool will donate $1,000 on Martin's behalf to a community-based organization. Outside's January issue is currently on newsstands. You can read Martin's winning ballot on the Outside Web site.

"Peace Corps is a great organization, and during these times, with the way much of the world views the U.S., it deserves to be recognized and supported, both from within and from the outside," said Martin.

The Peace Corps is celebrating a 45-year legacy of service at home and abroad. Since 1961, more than 187,000 Volunteers have helped promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of the 139 countries where Volunteers have served. Peace Corps Volunteers must be U.S. citizens and at least 18 years of age. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.

###