To the editor:
During our time as a McDonald’s franchise owner-operators in Nashville, Indiana, we have hired and trained employees of all ages and at different stages in their lives. We have hired high school students hoping to make some pocket money during their summer break, and single mothers picking up extra shifts late at night to make ends meet and support their children. Despite the different backgrounds, they are all driven by the same goal: to build a better future.
Our employees’ dreams, hard work and passion were the first thing that came to my mind when McDonald’s Corporation announced a $150 million investment, accelerated by the recently-passed tax reform, into the Archways to Opportunity program. The program provides our employees with an opportunity to earn a high school diploma, receive upfront college tuition assistance, access free education advising, and learn English as a second language.
Since its launch in 2015, Archways to Opportunity has increased access to education for over 24,000 people and awarded over $21 million in high school and college tuition assistance. The additional resources will triple tuition assistance, lower eligibility requirements and extend advising services to family members.
Our employees work tirelessly to support themselves and those who depend on them. We are thankful that McDonald’s investment will help us match the ambition and drive of our restaurant crew and lend a helping hand as they work to achieve their dreams.
Sincerely,
Gerry and Michael Stieglitz, McDonald’s owner-operators (submitted by Wilma Griffith)
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