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

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

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

“It’s really comforting. I really love it. And that excites me,” Esaías said.

Nominations are open year-round for the Do the Right Thing Award. Any student in grades K-12 in a Monroe County school is eligible for a nomination. The good deed must have occurred 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 given out The Do the Right Thing awards since 1995. You can learn more about how to nominate a student. here.