Baseball hall-of-famer Cal Ripken Jr. was pounding nails in Joplin Thursday, helping to rebuild after last May’s tornado. Ripken says he’s inspired by the people of Joplin and their determination to rebuild.

Ripken also donated $10,000 as part of a partnership with Energizer Batteries and the Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity. Scott Clayton of Habitat says Ripken’s visit has been positive and uplifting for the town.