Night of Light 2025 Was Pure Magic!

What happens when over 400 incredible people come together with one shared mission? Pure magic. Our 2025 Night of Light Benefit and Silent Auction wasn’t just an event – it was a celebration of everything that makes our community extraordinary.

A Night That Exceeded Every Expectation

From the moment guests walked through the doors, you could feel the energy. The venue was beautifully decorated, creating the perfect atmosphere for an evening of connection, celebration, and purpose. But what truly made the night special wasn’t the decorations or the setting – it was YOU. Each person who attended brought their own light, and together, we created something truly spectacular.

Delicious Food, Irresistible Treats

The evening began with a mouth-watering buffet-style dinner courtesy of Angie’s that had everyone raving. After dinner, guests enjoyed delicious desserts provided by Nana’s Lil Sweets that were the perfect sweet ending to the meal. But the treats didn’t stop there! We also had a tempting and delicious dessert silent auction table filled with irresistible treats. Throughout the night, attendees were able to bid on these sweet creations and take home their winning desserts. 

Performances That Touched Our Hearts

The live performances by our participants were nothing short of inspiring, and they were beautifully captured by the professional audio/visual services provided by Capital Production Group. Our participants put on an incredible program for those in attendance, showcasing all of their amazing talents and abilities. From heartfelt poetry readings and joke-telling that had everyone laughing, to a beautiful mystery piece played on the keyboard, every moment was special. We were treated to a great showcase of All American baseball and beautiful, uplifting song performances that filled the room with love. Our brave participants took the stage with genuine enthusiasm and reminded us of the incredible spirit and diverse talents within our community. 

Beginning a new tradition

This year, we were honored to introduce the “William Hartsfield, III Legacy of Joy and High Five Award” at our annual benefit. This new award will be given each year to a supporter who brings lasting joy, encouragement, and inspiration to the Able to Serve community.

We were thrilled to present the inaugural award to Mr. Jim and Marian, and the Smith Family, in recognition of their incredible support over the past 23 years. Their dedication has made a profound and lasting impact, and we are so grateful for their continued commitment to our mission today.

A Spotlight Moment We’ll Never Forget

A highlight of the evening was our participant spotlight featuring Josh. It was truly inspiring and heartwarming to get to know Josh better through his story and see the incredible progress he has made since joining Able to Serve. During a touching Q&A session, his dad, Mr. Bridger, helped us understand the support, sense of community, and positive impact the program has had not only on Josh’s life and development as an individual, but also how the entire family has felt loved and supported by our community. It was a powerful reminder that behind every participant is a real person with a real story, and that’s what makes this work so meaningful. Click here to watch Josh’s story!

Gratitude That Overflows

Our hearts are absolutely overflowing with gratitude for everyone who made this night possible. Special thanks to our incredible sponsors and supporters: Garner United Methodist Church for hosting us in their beautiful space, 4imprint.com for their generous gift sponsorship, and Joseph C. Woodward Printing Company for sponsoring our programs. We’re also deeply grateful to our dedicated Board Members: Holly Williams, Kimberly Davis, Andrew Hodge, Mary-Taylor Land, Tina Williams, Donna Burnette, Robin Pate, and Holly Woodard, whose tireless work made this evening possible.

We honor  our Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Sponsors with our deepest thanks for your generosity and support.

To our attendees who brought such wonderful energy, our volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, our donors who contributed to the silent auction, our Participants who shared their talents, and every single person who played a part in this success – THANK YOU. You didn’t just attend an event; you helped create a memory that will last a lifetime.

For Those Who Missed It

To our friends who weren’t able to join us this year – we missed you! We hope these highlights and photos give you a taste of the love and excitement that filled the room. Your presence would have made the night even more special, and we’re already looking forward to seeing you at our 2026 benefit. Mark your calendars now!

Looking Forward

As we reflect on this incredible evening, we’re reminded of our theme: BE THE LIGHT. Each person who attended didn’t just support our cause – they became part of the light that illuminates hope, builds community, and creates positive change. Together, we proved that when good people come together for a good cause, amazing things happen.

Thank you for being the light in our community. Thank you for your generosity, your presence, and your unwavering support. Together, we shine brighter, and together, we’ll continue to make a difference.

Want to see more photos and videos from this incredible night? Check out our social media pages for additional highlights and behind-the-scenes moments from Night of Light 2025