Santo Domingo – Renowned Dominican former baseball player, David Ortiz, was honored with the prestigious 2025 Humanitarian Award, granted by The Trust For the Americas, an institution associated with the Organization of American States (OAS). This recognition celebrates his outstanding work through his foundation, dedicated to providing support to children facing heart problems.
A Legacy of Solidarity
Ortiz founded the “David Ortiz Children’s Fund” organization almost two decades ago, after a visit that marked a turning point in his life. In 2005, upon visiting a Dominican hospital, the situation of children who had just undergone heart surgery inspired him to create this foundation. Since then, the foundation has achieved a significant impact, facilitating more than 1,600 pediatric cardiac surgeries and supporting 16,000 children with health problems in both the Dominican Republic and New England, United States.The awards ceremony, organized by the OAS and the Dominican Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Santo Domingo, highlighted Ortiz’s dedication. Linda Eddleman, director of The Trust For The Americas, emphasized her commitment to young people in need of urgent medical attention. Eddleman also pointed out that this award has been given on very few occasions in the organization’s 28 years of existence.“Through ‘David Ortiz Children’s Fund’ thousands of families have received support in very difficult times. This work offers hope and hope is the most important thing that can be offered”.
Linda Eddleman, Director of The Trust For The Americas
In his thank-you speech, Ortiz expressed his gratitude to God and the OAS for the recognition. In addition, he shared the beginnings of his foundation, recalling his visit to the Centro de Diagnóstico Medicina Avanzada y Telemedicina (Cedimat) in Santo Domingo.“David, this recognition is a thank you for your humanitarian work and for the many lives you have changed. Thank you for reminding us that when someone decides to help, that effort can transform the future of many families.”
Linda Eddleman, Director of The Trust For The Americas
Ortiz also defended the work of Dominican immigrants in the United States, highlighting their nobility and principles. The Chancellor of the Dominican Republic, Roberto Álvarez, praised Ortiz’s work and his foundation, highlighting its impact on the lives of children with heart problems.“When I went to this hospital and saw the conditions of two children who were (in a room) semi-operated, without resources… That was very shocking for me. It touched me in a way that few things have touched me”.
David Ortiz
