The heart of a helper
Volunteer Hensli Harkless at ICAN’s Salute to Service 5K.
When Hensli Harkless was four years old, she was out to eat with her parents when she noticed something she had never seen before—a person in a military uniform. Curious, she tugged at her parents and asked why the person was dressed that way. They explained what a Veteran was and why it mattered to show gratitude for their service. Her mom then walked her over to the man, and together they thanked him.
That small moment became a turning point.
“I didn’t understand everything at that age,” Hensli says, “but I knew it mattered. And ever since then, I’ve always thanked Veterans whenever I see them.”
What began as a simple act of kindness grew into a defining part of who she is. Now, she thanks Veterans anywhere she spots a uniform or a hat. For her eighth birthday, she even chose to celebrate at Mission BBQ, a Fort Wayne restaurant known for honoring Veterans. She has also made Veterans Day bags to hand out in November to community members. “I’ve just always had a heart for Veterans,” she says. “It’s something that feels natural to me.”
Hensli, as a little girl, thanking Veterans at a local restaurant.
Today, Hensli is a seventh grader with a schedule that would challenge even the most organized adult. Her days are filled with school, show choir, track, homework, scripture study, and whatever sleep she can fit in. Yet no matter how busy life becomes, she always finds time to serve.
She also competes in pageants—an activity that allows her to promote the philanthropic initiatives she is passionate about. Now, as the reigning Miss Three Rivers, she will compete later this year for Miss Indiana’s Teen in the Miss America system. Her chosen Community Service Initiative for the pageant is the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN), an organization that trains service dogs for Indiana adults and children living with disabilities, including Veterans.
“When I found ICAN, I loved that it combined everything I care about—Veterans, dogs, and helping people in Indiana,” she says. “It just felt right.”
Since joining the nonprofit as a volunteer, Hensli has already made a meaningful impact. She has helped promote the organization’s mission, represented ICAN at community events, completed volunteer training, received a Puppy Love delivery during its annual Valentine’s Day fundraiser, “Puppy Love,” and marched in the Fort Wayne Veterans Day parade while holding an ICAN sign. She hopes to take on even more hands‑on roles in the future, including becoming a litter sitter and eventually furloughing a service dog in training.
Hensli in Fort Wayne’s annual Veterans Day parade.
Among her early experiences with ICAN, one moment in particular has stayed with her.
“I thanked a Veteran client for his service, like I always do,” she recalls. “But then his wife thanked me. She told me that kids my age don’t usually do that. It really stuck with me.”
Guided by a strong sense of purpose, Hensli often encourages her peers to get involved in causes they care about. When young people ask her about volunteering, she lights up. “I tell them ICAN is amazing,” she says. “Being part of something bigger than yourself is fun and meaningful. Helping people is one of the best things you can do.”
Her connection to ICAN has also deepened her appreciation for the skill and dedication behind service dog training. She’s fascinated by how much the dogs can learn and how trainers remember every cue. “It blows my mind how these dogs can do so much,” she says. “Seeing how they help Veterans is incredible. It makes me want to do even more.”
Hensli with two of ICAN’s clients, who are military Veterans.
And she has no shortage of dreams. She hopes to sponsor a service dog in training someday, help with more events, and continue expanding her role within the organization. “I just want to keep showing up and helping however I can,” she says.
Hensli may be young, but her heart for service is unmistakably strong.
She’s a reminder that making a difference doesn’t require age or experience—just compassion, courage, and the willingness to act.
If you’d like to help unleash possibilities like Hensli, contact ICAN Volunteer and Education Manager Julie Mathias at juliem@icandog.org.
