Highlights of Jim's career include bouts at the Wonderland Ballroom in Revere and the Roxy in Boston, and he also participated in fights in New York, New Jersey, and New Hampshire. Jim recounts that throughout his boxing career he enjoyed the training and the sport, although he didn’t make much money. He says that only the top 1% of boxers make any money at it (Jim’s record on the professional circuit was 7 wins, 35 losses, and 5 draws).
To supplement his income as a fighter, Jim worked as a security guard. Later he did farm work and construction, including participating in the Big Dig project. Jim remembers that this latter work wasn’t stable—he’d have a job for three weeks in one place, three weeks in another. And then he broke his foot, leaving him jobless and without prospects, having done manual labor for nearly his entire life.
“I would have starved to death if it weren’t for Spare Change,” Jim says. He continues, reiterating, “I’d be in bad financial shape without this paper.” Jim notes that the Homeless Empowerment Project is “a good organization that helps a lot of people.” He has made this assessment based on experience—Jim has been selling the street paper consistently for seven years.
At his spot at Back Bay station, Jim says that he has seen many changes over the course of his involvement with Spare Change. He reflects that the economic climate has impacted his work, decreasing his sales numbers. Jim also notes that many of his previous regular customers have lost their jobs and no longer work in the neighborhood.
Visit Jim—the vendor who’s both a lover and a fighter—at his spot in Back Bay station. You’ll be greeted by a friendly face and a knockout smile!
RIP
Dear Jim,
I am one of many who used to buy Spare Change from you at Back Bay station... Today, I just came to know about your passing.
Goodbye my friend. I miss you. I won't forget you.
RIP
Jim Harrison
Just read about Jim's death and I am in shock. He always seemed larger than life and absolutely indestructible. We spent many wonderful Sunday's together and I will cherish those memories. His passing is particlarly tragic in light of the fact that there was so much that he wanted to do that he never got a chance to do. The thing that I will remember Jim for is his ability to love unconditionally. When he loved you, he never judged you. His children were his pride and joy and were very lucky to have a father who loved them so much. God Bless you Jim.
Jim
I looked forward to seeing and chatting with Jim on my into the office. He always had a welcoming smile and upbeat attitude. Jim was a proud man and a good man. He is missed.
excellent info about Jim
excellent info about Jim Harrison thanks for sharing and inceasing our knowledge.
MMA Forum
Jim
Jim was a wonderful guy. For the past three years, my wife, daughter and I have chatted with Jim on our way to school. During this time, we have come to enjoy Jim as a friend and to admire his perseverance and positive outlook. He was thoughtful about his life and proud of his children. This year we have looked for Jim at his regular spot every day and only just heard the news of his passing. We will miss him.
Patrick, Sophie and Carla Benzie
Jim's Passing
Jim passed away on July 7th 2011. He was at the Gym hitting the heavy bag as he liked to do when his heart gave out. Jim followed his passion having fought 46 professional heavyweight boxing matches from the early 80's through the mid 90's. He died with dignity with his gloves on. Jim will be honored in 2012 by RING 4 where he will be inducted into the boxing hall of fame for his lifelong contribution to the sport.
Jim Harrison
Jim was a good man and will be missed. I always looked forward to his cheery countenance in the morning after getting off the train. He was out working whether there was rain, snow, heat or cold. God bless.
feeling good
I'm always happy to see Jim on Clarendon Street when I am walking to my office. I have often wondered about Jim's background. It's interesting to know he was a boxer. I hope Jim's health is good and that he is doing well.
Jim
I have been buying Spare Change from Jim for years and as his Bio indicates, he always greets his customers with a gentle and friendly smile.
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