• 2026 ABLE Scholarship Opportunities

    Deadline to submit application: Sept 6, 2026

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    $1,000 Criminal Justice Scholarship

    2026 Application

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    $1,000 A.J. Miller Community Action Scholarship

    2026 Application

  • ABLE 2026 Awards Categories and Nomination Instructions

    Deadline for awards: September 6, 2026

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    GLORIA WASHINGTON OFFICER OF THE YEAR AWARD


    Throughout her distinguished career, Gloria Washington exemplified professionalism, integrity, and a deep commitment to positive community engagement. This award honors a law enforcement employee whose performance reflects the highest mission and values of the profession. The recipient consistently demonstrates exceptional work quality, meaningful contributions to their agency, and a level of service that earns the respect and appreciation of peers and the community.

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    DOEG NELSON SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR AWARD


    Doeg Nelson was a pioneering leader who broke racial barriers within the Phoenix Police Department, becoming the first African American to rise through the supervisory ranks from Sergeant to Assistant Chief. His mentorship and advocacy opened doors for countless officers. This award recognizes a sworn or non‑sworn supervisor (sergeant/manager and above) who demonstrates exemplary leadership, sound judgment, and consistent excellence in management. The recipient’s actions reflect sustained commitment to developing others and strengthening their department.

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    TED HUTCHINSON COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD


    Ted Hutchinson dedicated more than twenty‑six years to serving Arizona as a DPS officer and invested deeply in youth through his volunteer work with Pop Warner Football and the Kieckhefer Boys Club boxing program. This award honors a law enforcement employee or community member who demonstrates ongoing dedication, compassion, and tenacity in serving the community. Recipients contribute meaningfully to nonprofit organizations, youth programs, and community‑focused initiatives that uplift and empower others.

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    WELLS–HANSBERRY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD

    Ida B. Wells was a national leader in the fight against lynching and a champion for women’s suffrage. Edward Hansberry, a retired Chicago Police detective, continued his legacy of service in Arizona by helping reestablish ABLE and volunteering countless hours to strengthen the organization. This award recognizes an official volunteer who supports a criminal justice agency through exceptional service, initiative, and civic responsibility. The recipient donates significant time and effort beyond expectations, contributing meaningfully to their agency and community.

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    AJ MILLER DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

    Andrew “AJ” Miller served the Phoenix Police Department with honor and was a founding member of JUST‑US, the African American Police Association, and the parent organization of ABLE. A committed community activist, he helped organize Phoenix’s first MLK march and created the “Officer Friendly” anti‑gang program. This award is presented to a law enforcement or community member who has made - or continues to make - a significant, long‑term, and exceptional contribution to the law enforcement community. Recipients demonstrate a sustained commitment to advancing public safety, community trust, and support for law enforcement causes.

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    JOHN DAVIS SR. VALOR AWARD

    Detective John “Big John” Davis Sr. was critically wounded while responding to a bank robbery in Phoenix, ultimately giving his life in the line of duty. His courage and sacrifice represent the highest ideals of law enforcement service. This award honors a law enforcement employee who performs an act of valor, bravery, or life‑saving intervention involving personal risk. The recipient’s actions directly preserve life or prevent imminent harm, demonstrating extraordinary courage under dangerous circumstances.

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    EARLIEST NELSON CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR AWARD

    Earliest “Earl” Nelson was a pillar of dedication and service whose contributions to ABLE and the broader community left a lasting impact. Throughout his distinguished career as a police detective, reserve officer, and civilian employee, Earl exemplified integrity, compassion, and commitment to uplifting others. This award honors a civilian employee whose performance reflects the mission and values of law enforcement. The recipient demonstrates initiative, civic responsibility, and meaningful support to their department and community. Their outstanding work and dedication earn the respect and appreciation of their peers and stand as a testament to excellence in public service.

  • ABLE 501C(3) Determination Letter