"In the end, it won't matter how many touchdowns, homeruns or knockouts you had but rather, who you helped aong the way."

Close to His Heart

Phrases like "unshakable commitment", "adaptability", "high standards" come to mind when talking about "Baby Joe" Mesi, the boxer. Such phrases readily cross over into Joe's community involvement. A multi-dimensional man, Joe's commitment extends beyond the sport of boxing. Those who know Baby Joe, know that he is heavily involved in his community and is very much a supporter of the Western New York area. Giving back to the community comes naturally to Joe.

Outside the Ring, Joe Lends his Support

Outside the sporting world, Joe consistently lends his support to local charities such as Roswell Park Cancer Institute, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Lupus Foundation, Independent Living Project, and The Eagle Scouts of America. "I have always said I want to use boxing to leave my mark in this world," says Mesi. "I want to use my talents and eventually, my popularity, to help those in need and to make some positive changes. I believe that if you are in a position like mine and you do not take advantage of the opportunity to help others, you are just wasting your time."

Other organizations Joe supports include the Western New York United Against Drugs and Alcohol Abuse. Joe is their spokesperson and is passionate about teaching children the serious effects of using drugs and alcohol and the reasons why they should stay focused on reaching their goals.

Joe is entering his fourth year as a volunteer for the Children's Hospital of Buffalo where he donates his time and energy to making sick children happy. In addition, he is an active participant for The Variety Club of Buffalo Telethon, helping to raise money for Children's Hospital.

Passionate about Extending a Hand

It has been said by members of the local media that Baby Joe's success in the ring and his strong community involvement has made him possibly the most popular athlete in the area. Mesi feels that "Helping those in need is bigger than boxing and bigger than sports. In the end, it won't matter how many touchdowns, homeruns or knockouts you had but rather, who you helped along the way."

 

Buffalo is Home

Rather than abandoning the Buffalo market, Baby Joe relies on Buffalo to help carve his own distinctive path both in and outside of boxing. Joe captures the warmth and deep spirit common to the Buffalo area.

Joe is often seen at Buffalo Sabres, Bills and Bisons games supporting his local teams. Baby Joe comfortably fits into a Sabres jersey cheering alongside like fans; he enjoys pulling on a pair of heavy gloves and joining 80,000 of his friends at Ralph Wilson Stadium for a Buffalo Bills football game; or throwing the opening pitch to inaugurate another Buffalo Bisons season.