Fulfilling Jim's Legacy

"Our promise to you is to try and live our lives the way you lived yours. Lives driven by generosity, selflessness and faith." The sons of the late Jim Baller who made that promise will live out those words this summer as they help build a Habitat home in Jim's memory.

Jim, a beloved father, husband, brother and coach, has been deeply missed since his passing in late December. He was a wonderful craftsman and builder, who renovated his family's home and his wife's business. He had a strong creative and artistic side as well. Jim enjoyed sharing his many talents on Habitat sites.

This past Christmas Jim set a goal of building a Habitat home with his family and friends. Now, Charleen Baller, his courageous widow, is carrying that goal forward by sponsoring a new home in West St. Paul this summer. Jim's friends and family will be volunteering there for two weeks in July. Together they'll mark his birthday at the site on July 31.

"Jim was very talented and creative," says Charleen. "He enjoyed making things beautiful."

All of Jim's six brothers and sisters, including a sister who lives in Alaska, are joining Charleen to coordinate this build. They hope to make the home just as beautiful as Jim would have. They'll be joined in July by volunteers from the Ballers' community, including parents and athletes from Jim's coaching days, members from their church, Trinity Lutheran, and employees at Charleen's business.

A large network of support has emerged since Jim died, and everyone is eager to help Charleen and her family in building an affordable home for a family in need. Charleen thinks this is a testament to Jim's kindness and generosity. "Jim invested so much in other people," she says. "He taught us to think of others and to do good for others quietly."

If you are interested in learning more about sponsoring a home please email donate@tchabitat.org.

By Julie Wedig