45 Years of Impact: William Hardeman

William Hardeman doesn’t need a gym – just thousands of pounds of food.

Currently a freshman at Lakeview Centennial High in Garland, William has been volunteering at Sharing Life Outreach, a nonprofit that provides basic living necessities to families, since he was 10 years old.

He was born two months prematurely, which left him with a few physical deficits that confine him to a wheelchair. But that doesn’t slow him down.

William works in the client choice food pantry, assisting people in need with their selections. He volunteers for special events such as Sharing Life’s Back to School Fair and Christmas Fair, sometimes working hard as an “elf” to make sure needy children could also enjoy Christmas morning with toys under the tree. Another part of Sharing Life’s programs include delivering backpacks with new school supplies for students who lack resources to be equipped for the first day of school. William makes it part of his mission to provide these packs.

“This intelligent, capable young man is a shining example of hope overcoming adversity. He is always looking for a way he can help someone else or make a difference in his community. His positive outlook on life makes him a joy to be around,” said Teresa Jackson, Sharing Life Outreach CEO. “We are so honored to work alongside William Hardeman. He is a gift to Sharing Life and the people we serve.”