MIREX, the OAS, and The Trust for the Americas Present the 2025 Humanitarian Award to David Ortiz
David Ortiz is the first Dominican to receive this honor from this OAS-affiliated organization. Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Dominican Republic.—The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX) hosted the ceremony in which The Trust for the Americas and the Organization of American States (OAS) presented the 2025 Humanitarian Award to Dominican philanthropist and Cooperstown Hall of Fame inductee David Ortiz, in recognition of his outstanding work on behalf of vulnerable children. Through the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, his humanitarian work has made possible 1,676 pediatric heart surgeries, as well as specialized evaluations and care for more than 16,000 children in both the Dominican Republic and New England, United States. His foundation has successfully forged partnerships that provide access to high-quality medical services for families facing significant barriers to care. The ceremony, held at the MIREX Convention Center, was presided over by Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez, the OAS representative in the country, Luis Esteban De La Torre, and the executive director of The Trust for the Americas, Linda Eddleman. The Humanitarian Award has previously been presented to figures such as Bill Clinton, Juanes, and Stanley Motta, and for the first time recognizes a Dominican citizen, highlighting the hemispheric impact of Ortiz’s work. During his keynote remarks at the event, Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez said, “To have had figures of David Ortiz’s stature, who have always carried their heart and soul—that Dominican spirit and joy—beyond the country’s borders, means no one mistakes him for being from anywhere other than the Dominican Republic. ”We take pride in the fame and talent that David has created, and we express our gratitude through this recognition—for everything and more. All those children whom you have helped through your foundation to lead normal lives—that places you in a unique and distinguished position,“ said Minister Álvarez. The event was opened by María Alejandra Castillo de Rault, director of Specialized Diplomacy at MIREX, who emphasized that her department promotes sports as a tool for building relationships, fostering leadership, and enhancing the country’s international profile. ”David Ortiz’s career confirms that power: his example inspires, unites communities, and raises the profile of the Dominican Republic around the world.“ The OAS representative in the country, Luis Esteban de La Torre, stated that ”for the Organization of American States, this Humanitarian Award is an opportunity to underscore our conviction that the protection of children and adolescents is a hemispheric priority. Together with The Trust for the Americas and partners such as the Dominican Republic, we are promoting initiatives that seek to close inequality gaps and expand opportunities for those living in vulnerable situations. The recognition of David Ortiz honors leadership that transforms lives and reflects, in practice, the principles that guide the OAS’s work in the region.“ For her part, Linda Eddleman, executive director of The Trust for the Americas, stated that ”this award honors the kind of leadership that truly changes lives. David has used his story and his influence to open doors, restore hope, and bring aid where it is needed most. At The Trust for the Americas, we work to create opportunities throughout the region, and his humanitarian work embodies that spirit of collaboration that drives real results for thousands of families.” During the ceremony, David Ortiz expressed his gratitude for the award and acknowledged the work of the professionals and organizations that make this mission possible. The institutions also highlighted the impact of The Trust for the Americas in the country, where it has maintained more than two decades of continuous cooperation. In partnership with public and private entities, the organization promotes programs focused on digital inclusion, innovation, employability, and technology training that have impacted nearly 200,000 people in various communities across the country. Notable among its initiatives are the network of 101 Community Technology Centers, the innovation labs implemented in collaboration with ADASEC Dominicana in Bonao, La Vega, and Baní, and technical training programs developed with AES Dominicana. The event was attended by deputy ministers and directors from MIREX; OAS officials; representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in the country; business leaders; members of civil society organizations; family members of David Ortiz; and special guests.









