STATEHOUSE (Oct. 7, 2025) – State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) presented James "Jim" Ballard with a Circle of Corydon Award for his decades of service in public safety and his leadership in advancing behavioral health response initiatives across Elkhart County and the state.
Ballard serves as behavioral health response coordinator for the City of Goshen. Through his Educate–Encourage–Enforce model, he has connected individuals in crisis with shelter, treatment and life-changing support while fostering collaboration among law enforcement and health care and community organizations.
"Jim means so much to our community and has helped countless people in our area with unwavering dedication and commitment," King said. "I want to congratulate him on this well-deserved award and thank him for the positive impact he's had on Goshen, Elkhart County and our state."
In addition to his work with the City of Goshen Mobile Integrated Health Unit, Ballard serves as co-coordinator for the Elkhart County Crisis Intervention Team, established the annual Riding to Remember Fallen Police, Firefighter and Veteran Charity Motorcycle Ride, and is a board member for Faith Mission of Michiana and the Center for Community Justice.
“Service has always been about people, meeting them where they are, believing in their worth and helping them take the next step toward hope,” Ballard said. “This award reflects the work of many, not one.”
The Circle of Corydon Award was established by the governor in 2017 to recognize Hoosiers who have made remarkable contributions to the betterment of Indiana and its people, demonstrating through life and service qualities exemplified by the state’s greatest citizens. This is the only award issued and signed jointly by members of both the executive and legislative branches.
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State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) represents House District 49,
which includes a portion of Elkhart County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
PHOTO CAPTION: James "Jim" Ballard (second from right) stands with Bree Ballard (far left), Mary Anne Ballard (second from left) and Sean Ballard (far right) after receiving the Circle of Corydon Award. Ballard was presented the award by State Rep. Joanna King (R-Middlebury) on behalf of Gov. Mike Braun and the Indiana General Assembly during a ceremony on Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, at the Police and City Court Building in Goshen.
