MARCH CHARACTER CHAMP WINNERS, JALEN TURNER AND ISABELLE OLES

 

Jalen Turner is a Senior at McKinley High School and is hardworking in both his academics and community service.  Jalen has been creating his own community service with donation drives. He collects toiletries, as well as monetary and food donations, and gives them to local shelters. One of the shelters to which he donates is The Hunter House. The Hunter House is a drug addiction recovery and mentor house, which, through SMHA, helps people with recovery services. He has been performing this service and actively building his organization since 2014.  Jalen is a member of First Church of God in Christ, where he also volunteers and participates in several events. Jalen also works part-time at BJ Wholesale Club. As you can see, he is an active young man.

 

Jalen also organizes an annual Thanksgiving dinner at his church for about 50 - 100 people. He plans the entire event, collects donations, and directs the volunteers that help him.  Jalen also works monthly with other local charities to create events to provide food and clothing to families in need. Easter will be his next big event with his Easter basket giveaway.

 

Upon graduation, Jalen plans to attend Kent State, the Univeristy of Akron, or Walsh University, majoring in Business Administration.  McKinley High School is pleased to honor Jalen with this award. Jalen is an asset to have in our community and should be proud of what he has accomplished over the last several years in service of helping others.

 

 

Isabelle Oles is an ideal nominee for Rotary Character Champion.  Isabelle has been involved in numerous activities at McKinley Senior High School, including the McKinley Singers Show Choir, Women of Honor, Pep Club, and National Honor Society.  She is always willing to lend a hand to anyone; for example, Mr. Wyatt would not be able to change his office board without Isabelle's printing and decorating skills.

 

Isabelle is a compassionate young lady who openly accepts everyone with whom she comes in contact.  She is always willing to assist any student, in a major or minor way. We have never seen her turn away anyone, despite what they may be going through at the time.  Her ability to listen and talk to anyone with whom she comes in contact makes her unique, as she can blend in with any group regardless of the situation. Isabelle’s uncanny ability to see people for who they are without passing judgment is something to be admired.  Isabelle does not always see the impact she makes on people but it does not go unnoticed by those she encounters.

 

Isabelle will attend Walsh University this fall with the intention of majoring in education (although that is subject to change).  Isabelle will do very well in the Walsh community and will be an asset anywhere she lands. We are proud to have Isabelle Oles recognized by the Canton Rotary as a Character Champion!