Lauren Paulet-Miller won a 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro and $95,000 to create an outdoor retreat. Discover her inspiring journey and future plans.
From Sleepless Night to Life-Changing Moment
For most people, a sleepless night means nothing more than tossing and turning. But for Lauren Paulet-Miller, 26, it led to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
On July 30, Paulet-Miller was announced as the winner of a unique contest by Toyota Motor North America. Her prize: a brand-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro and $95,000 in cash to purchase land and bring her vision of an outdoor retreat to life.
A Vision to Connect People with Nature
Paulet-Miller, who grew up in Miami and now lives near Hagerstown, Maryland, wants to use her prize to create more than just a personal getaway.
Her dream is to build a retreat space where people can:
- Learn the basics of camping
- Gain confidence in the outdoors
- Break down barriers that keep communities—especially the growing Latino population in her area—from enjoying nature
“There’s a lot of barriers that keep people from my community from having those meaningful outdoor experiences. I’m hoping I can use the space to educate people of all races and backgrounds on how to experience the outdoors safely,” Paulet-Miller explained
The Prize That Fuels Her Adventure
The contest prize includes both the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro and cash to secure land. Together, they give Paulet-Miller the perfect combination of mobility and resources to pursue her outdoor mission.
Here’s a quick breakdown of her winnings:
| Prize | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro (valued at $68,400) |
| Cash | $95,000 for land purchase |
| Plans | Build an outdoor retreat space for camping & education |
| Vehicle Features | Special Mudbath color, rooftop camper plans, advanced off-road capability |
Why the Toyota 4Runner Matters
Paulet-Miller isn’t new to adventure. She’s:
- Gone off-roading in Utah
- Traveled New Zealand in a rented camper van during her honeymoon
- Already owned adventure-ready vehicles, including a Subaru Forester and a 2002 Toyota Corolla with over 200,000 miles
But the new Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro will take her adventures to the next level. With advanced off-road technology, a rugged design, and plans to add a rooftop camper, she’s preparing for unforgettable journeys ahead.
A Sleepless Night That Changed Everything
What started as just another restless night turned into a milestone that may reshape Paulet-Miller’s future. With the support of Toyota, she is not only gaining the tools to explore the outdoors but also the means to inspire others to do the same.
Her story proves that sometimes, the most unexpected moments lead to the most meaningful adventures.
FAQs About the Toyota 4Runner Contest and Winner
Q: Who won the Toyota 4Runner contest?
A: Lauren Paulet-Miller, a 26-year-old from Maryland, was announced as the winner.
Q: What did the winner receive?
A: A 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro valued at $68,400 and $95,000 in cash for land.
Q: What are her plans for the prize money?
A: She plans to purchase land and build a retreat space to teach people about camping and outdoor safety.
Q: Why is the 4Runner TRD Pro special?
A: It’s a rugged off-road SUV, with advanced features and durability designed for outdoor adventures.
Q: Where is she creating the retreat?
A: Near Hagerstown, Maryland, an area with a growing Latino population she hopes to connect with nature.