Jim earned the respect of others around the league as a team player. Jim was actively involved in the community throughout his football career, helping several charities and then spending his off-seasons speaking at schools about the importance of education, self-motivation, peer pressure and personal responsibility. Jim enjoys being a leader in the community as:

• Honored by the Illinois Park and Recreation Association and the Northwest Special Recreation Association: "In recognition and appreciation of outstanding contributions and unselfish devotion for the advancement of parks, recreation and leisure in the community and State of Illinois."
• Special Olympics Volunteer since 1993
• Special Leisure Services Foundation Board Member since 2001
• Bears Care Charity Volunteer since 1994
• Former member of the Palatine Rotary and Palatine Civic Club
• District 15 Educational Foundation Board Member 2000-2002
• National Multiple Sclerosis Society Board of Directors - 1996
• American Cancer Society "Relay for Life" - Active Honorary Chairman
• The Society for the Preservation of Human Dignity (PHD) - Honorary Chairperson for 2008 Golf Outing
• D.A.R.E. Graduation Speaker
• "No Excuses University" Speaker for Winston Elementary School – 2009
• Daily Herald Volunteer of the Week - April 16, 2006
• Palatine Park District Coach 2002 - 2008