Teen went to work at Burger King right after graduating — then strangers raised over $190k and changed his life

There is no limit to hard work and determination. When one wants to achieve their goal, they work tirelessly and do their best. Such was the attitude of Georgia teen Mykale Baker, per 11 Alive. The young boy had just graduated and rushed straight to Burger King, not to grab a bite but to work a shift. When a mom named Maria Mendoza spotted him and learned of his attitude, she responded generously, paving the way for hundreds of strangers to come together and turn the teenager’s life around. After learning about his life, the community raised over $186,000 and counting to give the boy the life he deserves.

Mendoza first spotted him at Burger King when she visited the outlet with her daughter, who was celebrating her graduation. There, she learned that instead of partying or celebrating with loved ones, Baker was working a shift. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many high schoolers take part-time jobs to afford a living or even save up for college. The count of employment rate was around 51.7 percent for people between 16 and 24 years. Baker was one of these hard-working teenagers who had to save up for a dream. “He was so kind, so polite. Radiating joy, even after such a big day. His dedication and quiet strength moved me. I felt called to do something to recognize that,” Mendoza mentioned. 

She shared a video on TikTok explaining his reality and decided to set up a GoFundMe. “Just after receiving his diploma, still proudly wearing his medals, he reported to his shift at Burger King,” the mom noted. She urged people to contribute so Baker could continue to persist in his efforts. She requested the community raise a little something so he could attend college. The first video, posted just weeks ago on May 23, received much traction. The mom later learned that Baker was not scheduled to work that night. Out of all earnestness, he noticed his team in need and showed up to serve. 

In another video, the mom shared the boy’s reaction to the generosity of strangers. She met Baker and his mother. She began by sharing Baker’s determination and commending him, followed by the good news. “I did a GoFundMe for you and so far, I have raised around $6,000,” Mendoza revealed to the boy. Leaving the mother-son duo in happy tears, Mendoza added, “The goal was $5,000.” “I told you it was worth it,” Baker’s mom said while tearfully embracing her son. However, that was not all. People generously continued to come through and donated nearly $190,000.

“We’re so grateful for your support—thank you for standing behind Mykale and his dream of going to college,” Mendoza wrote in an update. The mom continued to share several updates of the funds increasing and Baker getting much recognition, not just for his need, but for his determination and hustle. Sandy V. wrote, “Mykale, your work ethic and grind are contagious. We are rooting for you and investing in your future. You already have a strong foundation to succeed.” Mina Gonzalez added, “You’re the true inspiration of hard work and dedication.” 

You can follow Maria Mendoza (@mariabonita528) on TikTok for more content on humanity and kindness.