As Saint Francis Ministries celebrates 80 years of service, stories like Jim’s offer a powerful reminder of the organization’s lasting impact.
During this Good Day Kansas segment, viewers met Jim, a former resident of the original St. Francis Boys’ Home, who shared his deeply personal story of loss, resilience, and the life-changing support he found through Saint Francis.
Jim’s journey to Saint Francis began after experiencing unimaginable hardship at a young age. He lost his father just before his eighth birthday and later lost his mother in 1969, leaving him without a permanent home or clear path forward. After spending a short time staying with family friends, a judge in Liberal, Kansas, connected him with the St. Francis Boys’ Home in Ellsworth—a place that would provide stability, faith, guidance, and opportunity during one of the most difficult chapters of his life.
Reflecting on the organization’s 80-year legacy, Jim expressed admiration for the vision of founder Father Bob Mize, whose dream of helping young boys through faith, structure, and compassion has grown into a multi-state organization serving children and families in countless ways.
Jim also shared his memories of Father Bob, describing him as a calm but deeply mission-driven presence whose leadership inspired confidence and hope. While Jim didn’t interact with him daily, the impression Father Bob left was lasting.
What began in 1945 as a home for boys in need has grown into a far-reaching ministry serving children and families through foster care, behavioral health, family support, and more. Jim’s story is a testament to the foundation Saint Francis was built on—and the life-changing impact that mission continues to have today.
