Paying tribute to those dads who serve as an inspiration, but don't necessarily get recognition, Sears has awarded Charles Muller of Rensselaer, N.Y. $30,000 worth of labor and materials to advance his work in his Albany community. 125,000 votes in an online contest judged him to be the most worthy grand prize winner out of ten finalists.

"Charles Muller is a true unsung hero who converted a run-down building into a center to feed children living below poverty levels in Albany, N.Y.," said Ty Pennington, Sears spokesman. "He has stepped forward and made a true difference in many lives, and I am proud to work with Sears to help shine a light on his selfless service."

"I am truly honored to have been selected as the winner, and am touched by the overwhelming support and votes I received from friends, family and members of my community," said Muller. 

In a nomination essay, Muller's son wrote, "My dad bought some old broken down garages on the worst street in Albany, NY and turned them into a feeding center for children who are living below poverty levels… (He) rebuilt it into a full commercial kitchen, dining hall and food storage center… He even built a bigger center that would not only feed children, but help clothe, mentor and tutor them. It took him seven years and all of his spare time."

Muller originally wanted to use the grand prize to finish a project that gave inner-city kids jobs at a bakery to help them develop a good work ethic, but then he heard that the Boys and Girls Club would shut down unless the building could be repaired.

All 10 finalists are winners and will receive $3,000 in tools from the Sears Blue Tool Crew.

Muller's story, along with the story of all 10 finalists, can be viewed at www.searsunsungheroes.com.