Reviewed by: Michael Seale
He raised $10M to open United Ability’s adult program + now he’s being honored for his service
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Anyone who walks through the doors of United Ability in Birmingham can see the joy that is in all children, adults and staff.
Dr. E’s Place—a program for adults with disabilities—is no different. It’s thanks to the passion of Dr. Jimmie Harvey that Dr. E’s Place stands as a pillar for hope.
We talked to Dr. Harvey about his decades-long relationship with United Ability and how his service is being honored at the upcoming Journey of Hope on Saturday, August 17. Here’s what we learned.
Meet Dr. Jimmie Harvey
Dr. Jimmie Harvey came to Birmingham in 1984 and alongside Dr. Jim Cantrell, he founded Birmingham Hematology and Oncology, now Alabama Oncology.
In 1986, when Dr. Harvey asked his girlfriend Cathy’s father for her hand in marriage, his future father-in-law had one request for him: get involved with a local United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) organization first.
“He took me to the UCP center about 10 minutes from the house. We rode around campus and in one of the buildings was a dormitory with 35-40 adults.
I got the impression that he was hoping I would maybe do something with that.”
Dr. Jimmie Harvey
Over the next decade, Dr. Harvey served on the boards of many local organizations and met many professionals, one being Dr. Gary Edwards, also known as Dr. E.
Playing a crucial role in United Ability’s success, he led the fundraising efforts to open Dr. E’s Place in 2006.
To this day, Dr. E’s Place provides life-enrichment activities for adults with disabilities.
Meet Dr. Harvey and others at United Ability when you get tickets for Journey of Hope 2024.
Dr. Harvey embodies the mission of United Ability
Our team got to visit Dr. E’s Place and watched as Dr. Harvey greeted every participant and visited with them. This fellowship proved the undying love United Ability staff, supporters and participants have for each other.
As a board member, past president and prolific fundraiser, Dr. Harvey’s compassion and dedication embody the spirit of United Ability.
This is why he is the honoree for Journey of Hope 2024.
“It’s the most humbling thing I’ve ever been asked to do.
I think the honor goes to the people in this room who are here every day and give their lives to these participants.
I did it because I love these people and because it’s not about me—I’m standing on the shoulders of giants. All I can say is I’m humbled.”
Dr. Jimmie Harvey
“It’s funny to hear Dr. Harvey say the word ‘humbling,’ because he’s the epitome of humility.
Decades later, he is still a pillar of the organization through his service on the Foundation Board.”
Susan Sellers, CEO, United Ability
Attend Journey of Hope 2024
You can see the impact United Ability has on the Birmingham community at the annual Journey of Hope.
This year, Dr. Harvey is being recognized for his decades of support. You can also hear the story of Brian and Courtney Fleury—whose son Jamey attends the Hand In Hand program.
- When: Saturday, August 17
- 5PM: Doors open, cocktails + hors d’oeuvres served
- 6:30PM: Seated program
- 7:30PM: Dessert reception
- Where: UAB Alys Stephens Center, 1200 10th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35294
- Cost:
- Get tickets now
“You need to come and see that having a disability is not a hopeless situation. It’s a journey; a journey of hope.”
Dr. Jimmie Harvey
Learn more about Journey of Hope 2024 and secure your seat for an amazing night.
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