Success 365
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Success 365
The Young Imprintludowici The Young Imprint hosted a pop-up gallery at a community event featuring around 15 original artworks by local young artists. The display invited people to pause, take a closer look, and engage with children’s creativity in a meaningful way. The community response was powerful. Some people shared that the artwork moved them emotionally, while others encouraged us to keep doing this work and continue inspiring children. Many were excited by the idea of a museum or gallery space dedicated to children’s art and were especially amazed by our model of directing proceeds from artwork toward each child’s college savings plan. The children whose work was displayed showed visible pride when they spotted their pieces, and older youth were impressed by the creativity and presentation of the younger artists’ work. Parents and teachers were supportive and expressed interest in getting involved. This pop-up reinforced the impact of creating space for children’s creativity not just for the young artists themselves, but for the entire community. |  |
Youth Soccer Program555 Broadway Ave, Seaside CA 93955 Thank you to McDonald’s for your generous $1,000 grant in support of our youth soccer program. Your contribution has made a direct and meaningful impact by helping us provide equipment, uniforms, and accessible opportunities for local children to stay active, learn teamwork, and grow in a positive environment. We truly appreciate your commitment to our community and your support for our young athletes as they thrive. |  |
IMPACT Youth Services, Inc.Quincy, FL For our final group session of the year, students participated in a vision board activity designed to support self-reflection, goal setting, and emotional wellness. After discussing what vision boards are and why imagining a future matters, students were given time and space to creatively explore who they are today and who they hope to become. The impact was immediate and powerful. Students demonstrated focus, engagement, and enthusiasm as they thoughtfully selected images and words that represented their goals, values, and aspirations. Many expressed hope and belief in possibilities beyond their current circumstances—an important milestone for youth navigating alternative school settings. This activity was more than an art project. It was a therapeutic experience that encouraged healing, self-awareness, and positive identity development. By providing a safe, supportive environment, our program helped students practice envisioning a future rooted in purpose and possibility. Support from the McDonald’s Golden Grant makes these moments possible. Through mental wellness and youth development groups like this one, we are equipping young people with tools to build confidence, resilience, and hope—skills that extend far beyond the classroom and into their lives ahead. |  |
Inclusive Arts ProgramSanta Barbara, Ca Founder , artist and composer Grace Fisher outside the Inclusive Arts Clubhouse. |  |
EneRay’s Autism ProgramsSt Augustine, FL EneRay Healing Foundation is grateful for the McDonald’s Golden Grants award of $10,000, which directly supported our Autism Family Sleepover Program—a unique overnight wellness experience for families of children and young adults on the autism spectrum. This program provides families with a rare opportunity to rest, reconnect, and receive holistic support together inside our Energy Enhancement System (EESystem), a calming, sensory-friendly environment designed to reduce stress and support emotional regulation. Thanks to this generous grant, we were able to subsidize two full family sleepovers during the initial months of the award period, ensuring that financial barriers did not prevent families from accessing respite, advanced wellness technology, and supportive community care. Each overnight includes guided relaxation experiences, individualized support, and time for families to decompress together—something many caregivers seldom get the chance to do. The remaining funds will continue to expand access to the program throughout the upcoming year, enabling us to serve more families seeking a safe, restorative, and inclusive healing environment. The impact of these sleepovers extends beyond the overnight itself, offering families renewed energy, reduced stress, and strengthened emotional connection. We extend our heartfelt thanks to McDonald’s Golden Grants for investing in neurodiverse families in Northeast Florida. Your support is helping create meaningful moments of relief, bonding, and hope for families navigating the challenges of autism together. |  |
IO For Teens IncJacksonville In this picture, we are celebrating half a year done with two of our classifications. Discover Your Dream and Chasing Your Dream. The students each got certificates and one student was able to get $125 gift card for his participation. This is because of the McDonald’s grant!! |  |
Digital Media Creators ProgramOakland, CA In 2024, the Black Film Guild launched a new filmmaking and photography program across local schools, giving students hands-on access to professional cameras, editing software, and storytelling techniques. With a focus on blending creativity and technical skills, our in-class workshops inspired students to explore digital media while also building their confidence and teamwork. We’re applying for the McDonald’s Golden Grant to help expand this program, providing more equipment, covering workshop costs, and reaching even more youth. Beyond teaching filmmaking, this program empowers students to find their voice, explore career pathways, and see themselves as creators of change. The support from this grant would not only enhance our impact but inspire a new generation of storytellers rooted in community and creativity. |  |
White Oak Elementary SchoolBuford, GA Thanks to the McDonald's grant, our school's sensory room has been enhanced in the best way! Our upgraded space now offers a calming, inclusive environment tailored to support students with sensory processing needs, helping them regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and improve focus throughout the school day. Teachers have observed increased engagement and improved classroom behavior, while families are appreciative of our school’s commitment to meeting each and every students' needs. This investment has not only enriched individual learning experiences but also strengthened our culture of care, inclusion, and community support. We are so thankful! | |
Hands for Humanity3275 South Ola Road Locust Grove 30248 In 2024, Hands for Humanity applied for the McDonald’s Golden Grant for the very first time. As an organization, we came together to complete the application to the best of our abilities—and to our surprise, we were awarded the grant! Receiving $1,000 allowed us to reach our goal of donating 700 toys to the McKinney-Vento Program, directly impacting children in need within our community. Beyond the financial support, this experience became a valuable learning opportunity for our students. Completing the grant taught them teamwork, communication, and professional skills they can carry into the future. In fact, the impact was so inspiring that this year, our students were the ones who sought out new grant opportunities and brought them forward, eager to continue making a difference. The McDonald’s Golden Grant not only helped us achieve our mission but also empowered our students to grow as leaders and problem-solvers, while reminding us of the incredible opportunities available when we come together to serve children in need. |  |
Pointe South Middle School's On Pointe Players Drama ProgramJonesboro, Ga We had an awesome year last year. With the money we received from the grant, we were able to put on THE BEST production of Disney's Aladdin Jr. EVER!!! We had costumes, lights, mics, and even a fog machine! I am including some of the pictures from our production to this email. This past year, we had ten students apply for the performing arts magnet high school here in the district...and seven of those students were admitted. The students reported that they took that leap of faith as a result of the drama program here at PSMS. I couldn't have been more proud of those kids!! |  |
Austin Road Elementary1009 Austin Road Winder, GA 30680 Students were able to see an increase in pollinators during the pollinator census this year. This was thanks to the Golden Grant funds which added garden beds, plants, and irrigation to our Sensory Garden. The chickens, frog bog, and garden spaces are all thriving thanks to McDonald's. We are installing interactive panels this month to continue to improve our space. |  |
F.U.N. FridayPB Ritch Middle School During our year we have been able to use the FUN Friday funds for the grant to take our program to the next level, getting supplies for curriculum that we normally couldn't afford. A new printer, and tons of other supplies to help our entire Special Education Department here at RMS. This has been a blessing for our kids and staff and we are able to continue with this program thanks to the Golden Grants Foundation. F.U.N. Friday (Fulfilling Understanding and Navigation) Life Skills is a program designed for our Special Education Department here at PB Ritch Middle School to teach them a curriculum targeted at their adapted needs for SEL (Social Emotional Learning) and incorporating real skills in a Fun and Interactive way to incentivize our kids to use the skills they learn to grow as a student. Our class has thrived since incorporating this program and we are so blessed to have this grant as a way to help these amazing students find their way to Shine Ritch and Golden! |  |
Peer Health Education ProgramDaly City, CA This is of a photo of our 2025 Peer Health Education Leadership Team! These Second Year Crew and Youth Staff leaders have been specially trained to discuss sensitive health topics and lead educational sessions for their peers, creating safe spaces for dialogue and growth. This peer-led approach not only enhances their understanding but also empowers them to step beyond their comfort zones. In addition to leading educational sessions, they also facilitate workshops, lead events, and act as a link to Daly City Youth Health Center services. In this photo they are celebrating the end of a successful semester with a treat from McDonald's. The Golden Grant not only supports this vital program, but also helps us celebrate and recognize the dedication and hard work of our youth leaders! Thank you! |  |
Developing Sisters of Tomorrow / Miss Delta Teen PageantJacksonville, Florida The participants in the “Developing Sisters of Tomorrow” program give thanks to McDonald’s for its generosity and support, which contributed to the success of youth development/empowerment workshops and the 43rd Miss Delta Teen Pageant: “The Golden Opportunity” - signature initiatives of the award-winning Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. See video link below: https://youtu.be/eyP3vHPHvtk?feature=shared |  |
Run Strong, Grow StrongSan Luis Obispo Pure happiness! The Hawthorne Run Club wrapped up with popsicles and high spirits today. This group is amazing, and we're so thankful to McDonald's Golden Grants for their invaluable contribution to our "Run Strong, Grow Strong" program hosted by Recovery Road Runners Nonprofit. Community, connection, and cold treats – doesn't get much better! |  |
Oakland GenesisOakland Oakland Genesis student-athlete studying in the classroom before hitting the field for soccer practice! |  |
Read United DaySavannah, Georgia United Way of the Coastal Empire is committed to helping children reach their full potential by improving early childhood literacy through Read United, a year-round program serving schools and students in Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, Liberty, and Long counties. The initiative includes Read United Day, Read United Buddies, and Summer Reading Programs, in addition to strategic community partnerships to advance language development. Thanks to support from the McDonald’s Golden Grant, United Way reached over 20,000 students through Read United Day, our flagship literacy initiative. On this day, nearly 1,000 volunteers read aloud to Pre-K through 2nd grade classrooms and donate a book to each class. In Bryan, Effingham, Liberty, and Long counties, every student also receives a new book to take home, helping close the literacy gap for children without books at home. In Chatham County, we partnered with Live Oak Public Libraries and Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools to increase student and family engagement with the PLAY program, which offers fine-free access to books and other valuable library resources. To raise awareness, we launched a literacy-themed contest that encouraged families to visit their local libraries. As a result, visits by Pre-K through 2nd grade students increased by 700% during the month-long contest. We look forward to continuing this collaboration to expand book access and support reading proficiency all year long. |  |
Sun ProgramWD Hartley Elementary Our Sun Program students using the water and sand tables for an afternoon sensory break. |  |
Partners in EducationSanta Barbara, CA and Santa Maria, CA Our 8-week long spring session of Job Readiness Training concluded with inspiring events in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria. Over 90 students from various high schools completed the program, receiving essential workplace skills including: resume, coaching, professional communication, financial literacy, and of course, interview guidance. Over 50 professionals from 18 local organizations volunteered over the course of two events, helping students practice their elevator pitches and interview responses. Some organizations even sent employees with the intention of hiring students as interns this summer. |  |
FRC Team 801 HorsepowerOrlando, Florida Our programming team proudly holding the Innovation in Control Award at the FIRST Championships! Thanks to the generous support of the Golden Grants Foundation, Team 801 Horsepower created an innovative dynamic node network, allowing our robot to autonomously plan precise routes and coordinate seamlessly on the field. 'When it came to their control systems, this team has a “powerful” solution. Using a dynamic node network, their home-grown routing software plans autonomous paths with precision, coordinating seamlessly with their “partners.” When it comes to control, this team clearly has their hands on the “reins.” Congratulations Team 801!' Thank you, Golden Grants Foundation, for making this achievement possible! |  |
Speak Up: Let's Talk About Mental Health: Youth Community Mural PaintingNorth City Park Safety Harbor Florida Speak Up: Let's Talk About Mental Health is dedicated to removing the stigma of mental illness and to provide resources along with innovative programs to improve mental health, along with raising awareness of mental health conditions and suicide awareness. One of our priorities is to have our youth in underserved areas become involved in community projects. We believe that this gives them a purpose, teaches them team building and communication skills along with allowing them an opportunity to express themselves through art; all of which improve their mental wellbeing. We had the youth submit designs for a wall at a neighborhood park and they voted on the design they wanted. They then worked with two of our local artists and transformed the "blank" canvas into a vibrant mural with a message of kindness, positivity and inclusion. We offered this as a community project and had youth of all ages participate from tracing the design on the wall to putting the final touches on the mural. We had 100 youth of all ages participate and a group from the local high school art classes were there to help from beginning to end. It was encouraging to see no one on their phones for six hours instead they were communicating and working with each other. We received so much positive feedback from parents, youth and city leadership. We can't wait to continue this movement. It was an amazing day and offered an opportunity for everyone to see what can be accomplished with our youth when we connect with them and show them that they matter along with valuing their opinion and talent. Thank you to the Golden Grants Foundation for sponsoring our community project to provide a positive impact with our youth. I am going to try and send a few more photos, they can also be seen on our FB page: Speak Up: Let's Talk About Mental Health Non Profit. |  |
Daly City Youth Health Center's Project PLAY (Peer Leadership Alternatives for Youth)Daly City, CA Two of our youth Peer Health Educators leading high school students in a workshop about healthy relationships, boundaries, and communication. Our Peer Health Educators complete two years of training in leadership and presentation skills in order to be able to effectively facilitate this workshop. McDonald's support has helped us provide the support and resources for our Peer Health Educators to be successful! |  |
BSA/GEMS and EMBODIJacksonville Our organization led the development and implementation of 6 programs with 323 community members from throughout Jacksonville Florida (Duval County) from October 2024 through February 2025. Our programs are designed to increase information on a host of topics like personal health and hygiene, professional opportunities and careers, money and fiscal management, and emotional intelligence. We implemented programs as part of our organization’s Betty Shabazz Academy (BSA) and the Growing and Empowering Myself Successfully (GEMS) program for females ages 13 years or older, and our Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence (EMBODI) program for males ages 13 years older. Topics in our BSA/GEMS program focused on personal branding and self-confidence (October 19, 2024); improving personal health and increasing HIV prevention and awareness (November 16 2024); and exposing students to major industries and professionals through speed mentoring (December 14, 2024). Topics and activities offered in our EMBODI program included engagement with local police enforcement and community leaders, as well as ways for young males to cope with life’s stressors. Program evaluations showed participants were overwhelmingly satisfied with what they learned. Participants also shared that they will use the information to improve their personal behaviors regarding health, community service, and professional development. BSA/GEMS Program Summaries Personal Branding & Self Confidence: 10/19/24. A total of 56 people participated in this program focused on improving self-confidence, and personal awareness among females ages 13 years or older. Personal Health and HIV prevention and awareness: 11/16/24. A total of 78 people participated in this program designed to share information on personal hygiene, and to increase awareness of HIV infection and AIDS. Participants also created healthcare kits for other women unable to afford personal hygiene products. Career Professionals and Speed Mentoring: 12/14/24. A total of 118 people participated in this BSA/GEMS program focused on exposing females ages 18 years or older to mover 12 major professionals and career opportunities. Participants had the chance to talk to different professionals and experts firsthand to learn strategies on identifying a career one would enjoy as well as identify the first steps to pursue various careers. EMBODI Program Summaries Topics offered as part of our EMBODI program focused on improving emotional intelligence (October 12, 2024) and identifying ways to collaborate with law enforcement officers and community leaders (November 9, 2024). We also hosted a joint program with BSA/GEMS and EMBODI program participants focused on fiscal responsibility and ways to eliminate debt and build wealth. Emotional Intelligence & Mentoring Health: 10/12/24. The emotional intelligence was a virtual webinar with 37 participants in the EMBODI program designed to discuss mental health, myths about mental health, and mental health treatment options. Community Police Relations: 11/9/24. A total of 17 people participated in this program designed to share information about ways to prevent and avoid community violence. Participants met local law enforcement officers and talked with community leaders regarding community relations. BSA/GEMS and EMBODI Joint Program Summary Money Matters: 2/15/25. The money management program incorporated historical information aligning with economic justice during Black History month. A total of 17 program participants from the BSA/GEMS and EMBODI program learned more about eliminating debt and building wealth. Note: we have several pictures, videos and other documents to share but are only allowed to attach one picture. |  |
Clifford Heart's Unhoused Giveaway EventWest Palm Beach - Fort Lauderdale With the generous donation from McDonald’s, we were able to expand our impact in incredible ways. At our recent event, we distributed 350 care bags filled with over 7,000 essential items, including emergency blankets, toiletries, first aid supplies, and toilet paper. For the first time, we also provided free haircuts, which were met with overwhelming appreciation from those we served. In addition, we shared 36 boxes of pizza and had the support of 15+ dedicated volunteers. This funding has allowed us to grow our programming, not only by offering haircuts but also by expanding to include toys and books for children. We are deeply grateful for this support, which has empowered us to provide more dignity, care, and joy to those in need. Thank you for helping us make a meaningful difference! You rock Mcdonalds!! <3 |  |
MPESD Band1944 Flint Ave, San Jose, CA The MPESD Band is getting ready for our field trip, thank you McDonald's! |  |
Lighthouse4students.IncHollywood Lighthouse4students made waves at the 2024 Hollywood Cardboard Boat Race, taking home the prestigious People's Choice Award with their imaginative " School House Rock" entry. This exciting event brought together children and students from the surrounding communities with over 50 entries. The School House Rock entry stood out not only for its creative design but also for the determination and enthusiasm of the students. After their big win, everyone was treated to McDonald's burgers and fries. |  |
Sofia's Hope Arts ProgrmFt. Lauderdale, FL Collage of childhood cancer patients doing art projects with our partners Nailed it DIY and ClayWorld at Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital hem/onc clinic. |  |
Laces of Love Sneaker InitiativeSWFL: Collier and Lee counties Laces of Love was able to provide 100 students in need with new sneakers thanks to McDonald's Golden Grant. A majority of public school students in these counties face barriers to participating in physical activities because they lack access to proper footwear. Laces of Love is committed to ensuring economically disadvantaged students and student athletes in our local community receive brand new sneakers at no cost. Students Pre-K-HS who receive sneakers from Laces of Love are referred by school nurses, guidance counselors, social workers and coaches. They are fitted in the privacy of their school offices. A new pair of sneakers can influence a child's health, but also their social skills, emotional resilience, and cognitive abilities. Participation in sports and play promotes teamwork, discipline, and goal-setting and elicits smiles like these. |  |
Key Largo School PBIS ProgramKey Largo Key Largo School's PBIS program celebrates success with quarterly trips to the Power Dollar Store. Students receive power dollars for demonstrating model student attributes (prepared, organized, work to succeed, eager/active learner, and respectful). Additionally, our PBIS program hosts snack carts, attendance parties, and monthly kids of character awards to promote a positive learning atmosphere at our school. |  |
"The Voice Inside" by the Autism Theater ProjectMiami-Dade County Thanks to the McDonald's Golden Grant, the Autism Theater Project had a highly successful event this summer at Savor Cinema! Audiences of all ages were inspired by the pilot of our TV series, The Voice Inside, as well as the heartfelt speeches and musical performances by our autistic self-advocates. Their stories of resilience moved the audience to tears. Several young people on the spectrum shared with the ATP team that they view our artists of all abilities as stars, inspiring them to set high goals and pursue their dreams. We also used funds from the grant to produce additional episodes of The Voice Inside, which will premiere at the University of Miami this December. Our goal is to continue providing opportunities for students of all abilities to view The Voice Inside across South Florida and beyond as our event calendar grows. We are incredibly grateful for your support of our mission! |  |
Lompoc Community Benefit FoundationCity of Lompoc, Ca Lompoc’s popular Junior Police Academy program will be returning after a several-year hiatus, the Lompoc Police Department, in partnership with Lompoc Parks and Recreation. The free program is designed to educate children ages 8-12 about the importance of making safe choices, the responsibilities of police officers, and the role police play in the community. The Lompoc Police Department Junior Academy is made possible thanks to the support of McDonald’s Golden Grants. |  |
Lompoc Community Benefit FoundationLompoc, California Lompoc’s popular Junior Police Academy program will be returning after a several-year hiatus, the Lompoc Police Department, in partnership with Lompoc Parks and Recreation. The free program is designed to educate children ages 8-12 about the importance of making safe choices, the responsibilities of police officers, and the role police play in the community. The Lompoc Police Department Junior Academy is made possible thanks to the support of McDonald’s Golden Grants. |  |
David L. Rainer Elementary One Read ProgramKingland, GA DLR participated in a school wide read of My Father's Dragon! Each week students and their families were asked to read assigned chapters of the book together at home. Teachers also read to students in class. Students participated in weekly kahoot quizzes where they competed against one another to answer questions. For the culminating activity we showed off art created to represent the characters, played dragon games, crossed the "river", posed for photo ops, and enjoyed being together as a school family. This program was the first of its kind at our school! Teachers, students, and parents seemed to enjoy participating in this one read together as a team. We have already purchased two more books for next year! All families in our school (382) each received their very own copy of the book as well as each teacher and staff member! *I am only able to upload one photo :/ |  |
Hankins Johnson Educarion Foundation - STEM ClubOrlando Florida The Hankins Johnson Education Foundation's mission is to meet the needs of our community by maximizing every child's potential, eliminating the educational gap and preparing them with life skills. Our newest initiative is the STEM Club. The STEM Club introduces 4th/5th graders in underserved areas to science and technology. To succeed in this information-based, highly technological society, students must develop STEM capabilities beyond what was acceptable in the past. We’ve partnered with the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) a K-8 certified community partnership school. The program consists of workshops on fundamental skills and theory for programming and coding. The sudents loved it! |  |
