Memorial for boy killed in car crash raises scholarship money

A Brawley family turned grief into hope. On Saturday, they gathered the community together to help inspire kids continue their education in memory of their son Frankie Chavez.

Frank Chavez, Sr., said they’re celebrating his son’s life by raising money for scholarships for other kids.

Frankie lost his life in a tragic car accident, along with his friend, Nathan Mata, 26 years ago.

“[At] the intersection of Highway 115 and Blair Road, a lady ran a stop sign and broadsided Nathan’s car,” Chavez explained.

To ease the pain, the family turned to helping other kids.

“From year one, we awarded five thousand dollars. This past year, we awarded eleven thousand nine-hundred dollars. Usually, we average about from $12,000 to $16,000, that we award scholarships,” Chavez said.

He said it’s mostly for graduating high school students with interest in drama or with good grades.

“Frankie used to be in drama. He used to like the theater. He used to like being the center of attention. If they’re involved in drama or theater, they go to the first of the list. And from there on just go from a 2.0 to 3.6,” Chavez said.

The family would like to encourage everyone to drive safely.

“Don’t take it for granted that the other driver is going to stop at an intersection,” Chavez said.

Irene Chavez, Frankie’s mother, said, “Wear your seatbelts. Stay away from your cellphone. And be careful. Always think about what the other guy’s doing.”