Georgia Teen’s Work Ethic Inspires $90K Fundraiser for College

Dacula, Ga. — A fundraiser supporting a Georgia teen’s college dreams has now raised over $90,000, sparked by a stranger who was inspired by his quiet act of kindness. It all began with a late-night visit to a Burger King drive-thru.

Maria Mendoza had just attended her daughter Daisy‘s graduation when she stopped by the fast-food restaurant for a snack. There, she spotted Mykale Baker, a recent graduate himself, working behind the counter in his graduation medals, still smiling as he filled orders.

“He was so kind, so polite,” Maria recalled. “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.”

Touched by his work ethic, Maria decided to launch a GoFundMe campaign to help Mykale pay for his college expenses. “While many graduates spent the night celebrating, one young man quietly showed the world what determination looks like,” the campaign description reads.

Initially, the campaign brought in more than $20,000 within days. However, as Mykale’s story spread, donations continued to pour in. As of Friday, the total reached over $94,000.

Maria returned to that same Burger King to surprise Mykale with the donation. The heartfelt moment left both in tears. “I’m just grateful I got to do something for him,” she said. “He inspired me.”

She later learned that Mykale wasn’t scheduled to work that night. When he noticed the team overwhelmed with orders after his graduation, he jumped in to help without hesitation.

Now, Maria hopes Mykale’s story encourages others to recognize goodness in young people, reward hard work, and promote kindness. “Congratulations, Mykale. Your future is bright, and the world is lucky to have you in it.”