When Orion Jean was in the fourth grade, he launched his "Race to Kindness" campaign, tackling food insecurity, collecting toys for a local hospital, and donating books to low-income children.
"I basically just wanted to encourage everyone to go out and do an act of kindness because in this day and age, it's something everybody needs," Jean, now 11, said. "And it's free and it's always going to make someone's life a little better and make someone's life a little brighter."
The Texas kid is an author himself now, writing a book called "A Kid's Book about Leadership."
Out of 5,000 nominees, ages 8 to 16, Orion was selected as the 2021 Kid of the Year by Time Magazine - for his determination, passion, kindness, bravery, and innovation.
It's not the first time he's been recognized for his philanthropic work. Jean was on "The Ellen Show" with guest host Katy Perry who pledged to donate $10,000 to his work. He'll also be throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at Texas' Rangers Opening Day on Monday, April 11. Hall of Fame catcher Ivan Rodriguez will catch for Jean.
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