Do good: Esaias donates books in memory of his brother

ROCHESTER, NY – A child whose brother died is giving back to the community in his memory. Esaias Ortiz, a sixth-grader from East Irondequoit, is one of this year’s recipients of the Do the Right Thing awards. The award honors students for their acts of courage, generosity and good deeds.

Eight years ago, the Ortiz family lost their son Gian when he was just 2 years old. Esaias and his parents are now collecting books to donate to Golisano Children’s Hospital where Gian received care.

The Ortiz family has donated more than 1,500 books. Esaias, it means a lot to him to help other children.

“It’s really heartwarming. I really love it. And it makes me excited,” Esaias said.

Nominations for the Do the Right Thing Award are possible all year round. Any student in grades K-12 from a Monroe County school is eligible for a nomination. The good deed must have taken place within one year of the nomination. Anyone over the age of 18 can submit a nomination form, including family, friends, school staff and coaches.

The Rochester Police Department has hosted the Do the Right Thing awards since 1995. Here you will find more information about nominating a student here.