Georgia Teen Raises Over $110K for College After Burger King Shift

DACULA, Ga. — A Georgia teen’s dedication to work after graduation inspired a fundraiser that has raised over $110,000 for his college education. The story began when Maria Mendoza made a late-night stop at a Burger King drive-thru on the night her daughter, Daisy, graduated.

While grabbing snacks, Mendoza saw Mykale Baker, who had just graduated, serving customers with a smile, still wearing his graduation medals. “He was so kind, so polite,” she said. “Radiating joy, even after such a big day. His dedication and quiet strength really moved me. I felt called to do something to recognize that.”

Moved by Baker’s work ethic, Mendoza decided to help him with college expenses. She noted that while many graduates were celebrating with friends and family, Baker chose to work his shift at Burger King instead. “He didn’t do it for attention. He doesn’t even know his story went viral,” she added.

The online fundraiser she launched garnered immediate support, collecting more than $20,000 within days. As Baker’s story circulated, the donations surged, reaching over $110,000 by Friday night.

Mendoza surprised Baker at the same Burger King to reveal the donations, bringing both of them to tears. “I’m just grateful I got to do something for him,” she said. “He inspired me.”

She later learned that Baker had not been scheduled to work that night but decided to help when he saw the team overwhelmed with orders.

“I hope his story encourages others to notice the good in young people and reward hard work,” Mendoza remarked. “He is a role model.”

Baker’s future looks bright, thanks to the kindness of strangers and his own unwavering dedication.