Drew Turner: One Senior's Commitment to Community

When it comes to leadership, some people wait to grow into it. Others, like Drew Turner, step into it with purpose from the very start.

A senior at Frontier Jr./Sr. High School, Drew is in his first year on the Youth Philanthropy Council (YPC)—and he’s already making his mark. Serving as Volunteer Chair, he’s the first to raise his hand to help and the first to encourage others to do the same.

“My favorite thing about YPC is the community involvement,” Drew says. “It’s amazing to see students from different schools come together to make a difference.”

The Youth Philanthropy Council (YPC) is a program of the Community Foundation of White County that empowers high school students from all four local school corporations to be changemakers in their communities. YPC members meet regularly to identify needs, create and market grant applications, review proposals, and award funding to youth-led initiatives. Along the way, they develop leadership skills, serve their communities, and learn the power of philanthropy in action.

Making a difference is something Drew is well-practiced in. A four-year varsity athlete in basketball and track, a three-year varsity cross-country runner, and team captain across all three sports, he brings energy, discipline, and teamwork to everything he does. But his impact stretches well beyond athletics.

From serving as Vice President of Student Council and FCCLA to leading Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) as president since 2022, Drew’s calendar is full—but his heart is fuller.

“I’m passionate about God, school, sports, and the organizations I’m a part of,” he shares. “I hope to always be involved in my community and volunteer whenever I can.”

His passion for service has earned him national recognition. As a two-time FCCLA national qualifier and state champion, he knows what it takes to succeed—and he’s committed to bringing others with him.

“Being a leader to me means bringing everyone around you, including yourself, to success,” Drew says. “It’s about building relationships, trust, and loyalty. It’s more than just a title—it’s a lifestyle.”

That leadership lifestyle continues to shine through his role on the YPC. Whether it’s working with peers to evaluate grant applications or organizing volunteer opportunities, Drew approaches every task with heart and humility.

“I’m excited about all of the YPC grants because I get to try something new and help the community,” he says. “Philanthropy helps spread generosity and kindness. That’s something our world could use more of.”

In his free time, you might find Drew hanging out with friends and family or coaching at mini basketball camps. But even in those moments, he’s leading—through joy, kindness, and connection.

As graduation nears, he’s setting his sights on Purdue University, where he hopes to study Family and Consumer Sciences Education and eventually become an FCS teacher. It’s a fitting goal for someone so committed to lifting others up.

“My spark is making people happy and always giving a helping hand,” he says. “Whenever I do that, I grow—and so do the people around me.”

White County is lucky to have young leaders like Drew Turner who are driven not just by achievement, but by a deep desire to serve. And while this may be his first year on the Youth Philanthropy Council, it’s clear: his journey in making a difference is only just beginning.

If you want to support students like Drew, contributions right now to sustain the Youth Philanthropy Council are being matched 6:1. Donate online today at www.cfwhitecounty.org or reach out to director Lucy Dold to learn more: (574) 583-6911.