OUR MISSION
The mission of the Retired Boxers
Foundation is to assist retired professional boxers, especially those
suffering from alcohol and substance abuse problems, homelessness and
the effects of pugilistic dementia (the medical term for being "punch
drunk"), in the transition from their glorious days in the ring to a
dignified retirement.
OUR PROGRAMS
Our goal is to identify and build
resources that are available and accessible to retired professional
boxers, under five primary areas of service. They are:
FINANCIAL SERVICES
The Retired Boxers Foundation will raise funds to
establish a charitable fund to help boxers in critical need of financial
assistance as well as provide financial counseling to secure a solid
financial base in their retirement. Personal financial
management services, including tax assistance will also be offered to
insure their long-term financial stability and solvency.
REHABILITATION SERVICES
The RBF will provide specialized resources for medical
services as well as facilities for the rehabilitation of retired
professional boxers suffering from pugilistic dementia. Other
health related resources will include referrals for physical therapy,
substance abuse treatment and support groups, and finally, personal and
peer counseling in person and by phone.
HOUSING SERVICES
The objective of the RBF's residential care services is
to break the cycle of homelessness and transience by assisting retired
boxers to achieve an independent lifestyle. Housing will be
available to those who are homeless and without the means to secure even
the basic human needs, including food, shelter and safety.
YOUTH SERVICES
Many professional boxers were once youngsters whose lives
were touched by caring adults who mentored them. The RBF will
organize activities to assist disadvantaged youth including support for
existing programs and gyms, summer boxing cams, academic enrichment
programs and mentoring. The Retired Boxers will speak to youth
about their education, substance abuse, consequences and decision
making.
The RBF will provide supportive services to retired
boxers who are senior citizens, including assistance with simple daily
tasks such as transportation, assistance with complicated medical bills
and personal business.
The
Retired Boxers Foundation was started by Alex "The Bronx Bomber" Ramos in 1998.
