The Real Joe Mauer

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Everyone knows Joe Mauer is a hometown boy. He even continues his relationships with his childhood friends to this day.

Pat Leseman is a St. Paul mother, who has spent the past 15 years watching Mauer coming in and out of her home, says Mauer leads by example and his actions. He doesn't discriminate and treats everyone, including those with disadvantages with respect.

Mauer became friends with Leseman’s son, Mike, who has special needs. Mike is the younger brother of Tony Leseman, who is one of Mauer's best friends. Mauer was in Tony’s wedding in November and helped Mike play his role as a groomsman.

In high school, the three would have lunch together every Monday and Friday. Leseman says Mauer never treated Mike differently.

"He is an average Joe,” said Leseman. “he doesn't command attention. He doesn't want attention.”

Eight years ago, Leseman and her friend, Rose, started the Highland Friendship Club , which is an organization that helps teens and young adults with disabilities make friends. It started with Mike and his friend, John. Today it's 180 strong.

"He believes in what we do he told me that several times."
For the past three years Mauer has participated in the organizations biggest event, a bowling fundraiser.

Highland Friendship Club
www.highlandfriendshipclub.org