Annual Benefit Dinner Presentation: The William Hartsfield “High Five” Impact Award
At Able to Serve, we believe that the impact someone makes on others can last far beyond the moments we share with them. This year and last, we had the privilege of honoring that kind of lasting impact through the William Hartsfield “High Five” Impact Award.
The award was created in memory of William Hartsfield III, a beloved Able to Serve participant who was part of our community for 11 years before passing away in 2025. William was known for his joyful spirit and his ability to make the people around him feel special.
If you knew William, chances are you received a high five from him! He brought joy wherever he went, encouraged others, loved people well, and had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued. His legacy continues to be remembered through an award that honors someone who carries that same spirit of joy, service, and encouragement within the Able to Serve community.
During the 2026 Benefit Dinner program, Sophia Mercer, instructor of William at ATS, described the impact and legacy of William’s life. She praised William for his never-ending joy and the kindness of the William’s family. Janet, William’s mom, also helped present the award to this year’s recipients.
This year, the award was presented to a special group of women who are a part of Hollands Baptist Church- the WINGS circle (Women Interested In Growing Spiritually). They have faithfully supported Able to Serve since 2015. For many years, they have supported our Annual Benefit Dinner and have generously sponsored and hosted our annual Valentine’s Dances and Christmas Parties. Their generosity has helped provide venues, meals, decorations, and volunteers who serve throughout these special events.
But their impact goes beyond what they provide. It is how they show up. They have consistently given their time, talents, energy, and hearts to creating meaningful experiences for our participants. Their continued friendship and support have helped make special celebrations possible and have created opportunities for our participants to build friendships, celebrate together, and make lasting memories.
The William Hartsfield “High Five” Impact Award is a beautiful way to continue William’s legacy by recognizing those who make a meaningful difference through the way they serve others. This year’s recipients exemplify that spirit through their years of faithful support and their commitment to the Able to Serve community.
We are incredibly grateful for their generosity, friendship, and continued dedication to our participants. Congratulations to this year’s recipients of the William Hartsfield “High Five” Impact Award, and thank you for carrying forward the spirit of joy that William shared so freely with others.
