Frank Shankwitz Major Accomplishments

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One of the world's greatest non-profit organization started with only a police officer and 7 year old leukemia patient. When Frank Shankwitz was really young, his parents got divorced, and in order to support his family (his mom and himself), he started washing dishes at a restaurant at the age of 10. After he finished high school, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed in England, but received an Honorable Discharge in 1965. When Frank returned home, he was employed by Motorola, Incorporate for seven years. In 1972, he was hired for the Arizona Department of Public Safety as a highway patrol officer for the in the city of Yuma. After three years in Yuma, he was hired for the Motorcycle Tactical Unit in the Phoenix area. …show more content…

Major Accomplishments After Frank moved to Phoenix, he met Chris Greicius. Chris was diagnosed with leukemia and all he ever wanted was to be a police officer, so he can be a hero. Chris was made the first Honorary Arizona Highway Patrol Officer and the only in the history of the Arizona Highway Patrol. He received a badge, custom made uniform, and Motor Officer Wings. Chris passed away due to his illness, a few day after getting his wish, and was buried with full police honors in Illinois. Instead of seeing this as a loss, he saw it as an opportunity and an inspiration. Frank and a group of police officers started helping various children in their community who had terminal illnesses. The first official child to have his wish granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation is Frank "Bopsy" Salazar. Bopsy was a 7 year old that dying from leukemia, similar to Chris. Frank Shankwitz helped grant him all three of his wishes. His wishes were: to be a fireman, go to Disneyland and ride in a hot air balloon. Frank strongly …show more content…

He spreads a message of love and hope to ill children through his charity. His belief in helping people - especially children- and his faith provided him with the drive to make his dreams reality. Frank wanted to reach out to as many children as possible, and he took responsibility to make sure he achieved his mission. Frank ideals and his