Distinguished Finalist

Gabrielle Wilkerson, 16, of Los Angeles, Calif., a junior at The Buckley School in Sherman Oaks, started a Cancer Awareness Club at her school that has raised $30,000 to help families of cancer-stricken children pay for expenses that insurance won't cover. Gabrielle leads teen volunteers from 12 high schools across the United States, organizes run-walks and other fund-raisers, solicits donations and ongoing sponsorships from corporations and individuals, publicizes activities, and works with hospital social workers to provide financial help to needy children undergoing treatment for cancer.