BREAKING — David Ortiz sparks emotional buzz as he appears with family, expanding youth support programs and sending Boston into celebration.nh1

David Ortiz has always carried a presence that absorbs attention. Whether in the batter’s box, on a championship stage, or walking through Boston streets, Big Papi commands a reaction.

But at this weekend’s launch of “Big Papi Youth Weekend,” the tone was different — quieter, more personal, and arguably more meaningful.

Ortiz appeared alongside his family as he announced an expanded commitment to support underprivileged youth across Massachusetts. The initiative, which partners with local organizations to provide scholarships, equipment grants, and mentorship resources, represents a major extension of Ortiz’s philanthropic work.

“I want my kids to understand that this is what winning really means,” Ortiz said, gesturing toward his children. “Helping others, making life better for someone who didn’t get the same starting point.”

The room applauded — but outside, the moment reverberated even louder. Boston Globe readers began circulating photos of Ortiz surrounded by smiling children. Red Sox fans flooded social media applauding the move. And at Fenway Park, digital boards displayed a tribute message during a team function.

Ortiz has always been revered for his October heroics, yet his post-retirement persona — a mentor, an advocate, a giver — has elevated him beyond sports identity.

This weekend’s announcement deepened that transformation.

Organizers noted that Ortiz personally pushed for wider program access after reviewing how many kids were being turned away due to limited space. The expanded funding is expected to support hundreds more students through educational aid and athletic participation, particularly in areas where access to sports has declined.

“Baseball saved my life,” Ortiz said. “I want other kids to have something that saves theirs too.”

The event wasn’t just ceremonial. Ortiz spoke directly with families, posed for photos, signed gear, and sat with a group of scholarship recipients to hear their stories.

“He cares,” said program coordinator Emily Rosario. “This isn’t a name on a banner. He shows up.”

For longtime Boston fans, Ortiz’s evolution feels fitting.

He won three World Series, delivered some of the biggest postseason hits in Red Sox history, and helped lift a city during tragedy. But his presence in Boston’s cultural heartbeat has only grown — not through nostalgia, but through ongoing action.

Seeing Ortiz with his children underscored the generational nature of his influence. The legacy isn’t just statue-sized — it’s alive, active, and expanding.

The weekend concluded with what became the most shared moment — Ortiz hugging a young boy who thanked him for “changing his future.” Ortiz paused, smiled, and replied, “No — you’re going to change it.”

In a city that celebrates its sporting icons loudly, Ortiz continues to be one of the rare figures who earns applause not just for what he did, but for who he becomes.

The home runs made him a hero. The heart makes him unforgettable.