McDonald’s is known for its iconic burgers and fries and its deep commitment to giving back to communities through various charitable programs and fundraisers. With a global presence, McDonald’s has been involved in multiple philanthropic efforts that support families, education, and underrepresented communities.

In this article, we’ll cover the different types of fundraisers McDonald’s supports, including major charitable efforts like the Ronald McDonald House Charities, and how you can request donations or participate in these initiatives.

Types of Fundraisers at McDonald’s

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC): One of the most well-known McDonald’s fundraisers, RMHC provides comfort and support to families with sick children by offering them a place to stay near the hospital. These houses give families the resources to focus on their child’s recovery without worrying about accommodation costs.

Black & Positively Golden: This initiative celebrates and uplifts Black excellence by providing grants and resources for education, leadership development, and cultural programs. It aims to inspire and empower the Black community through positive contributions in various sectors.

Paving the Way for APA: McDonald’s also focuses on the Asian Pacific American (APA) community through this program, which offers educational opportunities, mentorship, and leadership development. It seeks to highlight and nurture the APA community’s success in various fields.

Scholarships at McDonald’s

McDonald’s® HACER® National Scholarship

The McDonald’s HACER® National Scholarship is designed to support Hispanic students in their pursuit of higher education. This program provides substantial financial assistance to help students afford college tuition and related expenses. Since its inception, the scholarship has helped countless young people from Hispanic communities across the U.S. reach their academic goals, giving them a solid foundation for future success.

Eligibility and Requirements: To be eligible for the HACER® Scholarship, applicants must be high school seniors of Hispanic heritage, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8, and plan to enroll in a two- or four-year college or university. Financial need, leadership skills, and active community involvement are important criteria. Applicants are also required to submit essays, recommendation letters, and transcripts as part of the selection process.

Resource Library: McDonald’s offers a Resource Library filled with tools to assist students through the college application process. The library includes tips on how to apply for scholarships, create a winning personal statement and ace interviews. These resources aim to make the application journey easier and provide students with the knowledge they need to succeed in securing scholarships.

Scholarships & Funding: In addition to the HACER® National Scholarship, McDonald’s partners with various organizations to provide access to additional scholarships and funding opportunities. This ensures that students can find financial aid beyond just one scholarship, making the road to higher education more affordable and less stressful. The company is committed to empowering students by removing financial barriers.

McDonald’s HACER® Education Tour: The McDonald’s HACER® Education Tour is a nationwide initiative designed to bring valuable resources and information directly to students. Through virtual workshops, expert panels, and one-on-one guidance, the tour provides students with insights into the college application process, scholarship opportunities, and financial planning. This program is a hands-on effort to help students make informed choices about their educational futures and maximize their potential for success.

How to Start a McDonald’s Fundraiser

• Book a Date: Reach out to a local McDonald’s that supports community initiatives and request a date for your group’s fundraiser. You can either visit the restaurant or contact them online. Choose a date that works for your group and aligns with the restaurant’s availability.
  
  
• Spread the Word: Promote your fundraiser by sharing the event on social media, sending out emails, and distributing flyers in your community. Encourage people to RSVP to ensure a great turnout. The more people who attend, the more funds raised for your cause.
  
  
• Eat & Raise: On the day of the event, enjoy a fun meal with your group while supporting your cause. A percentage of the sales from your group’s purchases will be donated directly to your organization or cause, making the event a win-win for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much of the sales are donated?

Typically, McDonald’s donates a percentage of the sales from your event, ranging from 15% to 20%, depending on the location.

How do I request a date for a fundraiser?

You can either contact your local McDonald’s restaurant directly or fill out an online request form if the location has one available.

How long does it take to receive funds from a fundraiser?

It usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks to receive the funds after the event. McDonald’s processes the sales, calculates the donation, and then sends the money to your organization.

Is there a cost to host a fundraiser?

No, there’s no upfront cost to organize a McDonald’s fundraiser.

How do I request a date for a fundraiser?

You can either contact your local McDonald’s restaurant directly or fill out an online request form if the location has one available.

Conclusion

McDonald’s fundraisers and donation requests provide a wonderful opportunity to support your community or organization while enjoying some of your favorite meals. With options like hosting group meals where a percentage of sales is donated, and the ability to request donations for specific events, McDonald’s offers several ways to raise funds for a variety of causes. By partnering with your local McDonald’s and spreading the word effectively, you can make a real impact and raise significant funds for your group or organization. McDonald’s commitment to giving back makes it a great choice for hosting community-focused fundraising events.