If you were around during the ’70s, you may remember the CB craze. It seemed like everyone was driving around, yakking on their Citizen Band radios. A successful novelty recording, Convoy, played on radio music stations, characterizing the catchy communication between long-haul truckers. The fun was also immortalized in Burt Reynold’s hit movie, Smokey, and the Bandit.
America was introduced to terms like negatory, and phrases like What’s your handle good buddy? We used standard radio codes like “10-20”, to indicate one’s location, and the famous “10-4”, to confirm comprehension. “11-99” is the radio code meaning officer needs assistance, and that’s exactly what the 11-99 Foundation is all about.
Civic leader Bob Weinberg became aware of a California Highway Patrol family facing a grave financial crisis, brought on by the prolonged, serious illness of their child. State employment benefits were inadequate in handling the financial demands of catastrophic illness. Mr. Weinberg identified the need for organized, community support for CHP families in times of crisis, and in 1981, founded the 11-99 Foundation.
The foundation improves the lives of hundreds of thousands of Californians every year. It directly assists CHP officers and their families by providing financial assistance in times of need. Program support has totaled more than $14 million since the foundation’s inception.
Education assistance is also a significant benefit. Last year, the Foundation awarded more than $1.9 million in scholarships to 913 sons, daughters, and spouses of CHP families. It has funded more than $11 million in scholarships since 1981.
Like all charitable organizations, the 11-99 Foundation needs our support. Financial donations are highly appreciated; however, anyone can contribute in a variety of ways. You can volunteer your time, helping at numerous fund-raising events. You can also contribute raffle prizes, like sports tickets, a ride on your boat, or even the use of your beach house for a weekend.
Remember, 55 CHP Officers have given their lives in the line of duty. Their families deserve our support.
The California Highway Patrol 11-99 Foundation
2244 North State College Boulevard
Fullerton, CA 92831
714-529-1199
www.chp11-99.org
