Do the Right Thing: Jonathan saved his grandmother during a devastating fire

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — News10NBC is celebrating the latest winner of this semester’s “do the right thing” award. Meet Jonathan Raplee a 10th grader from Churchville.

Jonathan’s school administrator nominated him for the brave and courageous way he handled an emergency situation this fall. Jonathan, who is on the autism spectrum, was home alone with his grandmother when he smelled smoke. A fire had started in a downstairs electrical outlet. Jonathan calmly helped his Nana, who has dementia, out of the house and contacted 911.

Thanks to Jonathan’s quick actions, he and his grandmother were able to safely escape a devastating house fire that destroyed their home and almost all of their possessions. Unfortunately, the family lost several pets in the fire, but thanks to Jonathan’s quick actions, he and his grandmother escaped unharmed.

Any student enrolled in grades K-12 in any Monroe County school is eligible for nomination. The good deed the student is nominated for must have occurred in Monroe County within one year of the nomination. Anyone over 18 years of age can submit a nomination form (this includes family, friends, school staff, coaches, etc.).

Nomination forms can be completed and submitted electronically or you can print the PDF form and email or fax the completed form. Forms are also available at any RPD building and any City school or City library.

Nominations can be emailed to DoTheRightThing@cityofrochester.gov or faxed to (585) 428-6093.