Distinguished Finalist

Isha Jog, 17, of Schaumburg, Ill., a senior at Hoffman Estates High School, founded "Holiday Heroes," a youth-run volunteer organization that sponsors a major service project timed around every major holiday. Isha, who was inspired to give back after receiving assistance in the past, coordinates the activities of 50 members who participate in projects including food drives, charity dinners, and book collections that have impacted more than 5,000 people in Illinois.