Joe Baldo ’78

Why this Organization/Cause is Important to You or the Nominee
In 2007, as Joe Baldo was concluding a successful career in corporate communications, he sought a way to serve those in need. His various volunteer roles led him to juvenile hall in Orange in 2008, where he quickly recognized the harsh realities facing at-risk teens. After witnessing the recidivism in the juvenile justice system over three years, he realized these youth needed direction and support upon their release. In 2010, he left his position at the hall to engage with them where they needed help most — on the outside. Baldo founded Higher Ground Youth and Family Services to help disadvantaged youth find happiness through sports and after-school programs. His efforts have positively impacted thousands of lives and families.

Length of Service with the Organization/Cause
2007–Present 
 
Share Advice to Guide Students Hoping to Pursue a Career with Social Impact or in Nonprofit Industries
In 1977, during my junior year at LMU, I was introduced to video and film production. This experience ignited a new and exciting passion for creative communication. After graduating, I started my own small production company.

Fast forward to 2008, when I reached midlife. Thankfully, I avoided the stereotypical male midlife crisis and instead felt immense gratitude for my wife, children, faith, health, and successful career. I recognized these as gifts from God — blessings I could never have earned or deserved.

One Sunday, our parish priest delivered a homily centered on the verse, "To those much has been given, much is expected." This resonated deeply with me, prompting a desire to give back generously. I began exploring various ministries and nonprofit organizations, which ultimately led me to volunteer at the Orange County Probation Department’s Juvenile Hall in California. After two and a half years, I realized that the youth I served needed tenfold support upon their release to help them avoid the circumstances that led to their arrests. This understanding inspired the creation of Higher Ground.

I am grateful to have discovered my passion early in life and to have built a career around it for 30 years. Yet, I was unaware that another calling awaited me: engaging with and supporting underserved youth in Orange County.

Over the past 16 years, I have learned that fulfillment in one’s work leads to a greater sense of purpose. Once you recognize your purpose, God blesses you for honoring it — these blessings are abundant, far exceeding monetary gains.

A fulfilled Christian life involves appreciating those blessings and sharing time, talent, and treasure with those in need. Giving back is not a one-way street; it profoundly impacts both the recipient and the giver. My experiences at Juvenile Hall and with Higher Ground exemplify this, but there are countless ways to give back to your community. It’s essential to find what resonates most with you, as even small gestures can be incredibly meaningful. Find your path and choose wisely. The more you give, the more you receive — something our volunteers at Higher Ground often express. They are often surprised by how good it makes them feel to give back.

How Can Others Help or Get Involved
We know the most valuable gift you can give is your time. If you would like to volunteer, sign up via our website https://www.highergroundoc.org/join-our-team.