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McDonald's Dedicates Jan. 8 to Past and Present Crew Members and Their World Famous Skills

prnewswire.com

On Jan. 8, 1 in 8 Day, McDonald's debuts Arches & Ambition: The 1 in 8 Mentorship Program to showcase the unique and powerful career paths that start under the Golden Arches

CHICAGO, Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Did you know 1 in 8 Americans have worked at a McDonald's restaurant? It's more than just a statistic – it's a shared experience that quietly connects over 40 million people across the country.

Built Behind the Counter: 1 in 8 Day

We're kicking off the year celebrating the first-ever 1 in 8 Day. Today is about recognizing the millions of past and present Crew members who have been the heartbeat of McDonald's restaurants and its communities for over 70 years.

Celebrations will take place coast to coast – from restaurant events recognizing Crew to local offers for fans to get in on the fun – bringing the 1 in 8 and their communities together to honor the lifelong skills gained working under the Golden Arches.

It's where Crew learn how to show up with purpose, work as a team, think fast on their feet, and master the art of staying calm during the lunch rush, all while making delicious feel-good moments for our fans.

And those skills? They don't just stay behind the counter – they become the building blocks for turning ambition into achievement.

Arches and Ambition: The 1 in 8 Mentorship Program

We're spotlighting this trajectory by launching Arches and Ambition: The 1 in 8 Mentorship Program – a four-part YouTube series following four Crew members on their one-on-one mentorship journeys with former McDonald's employees who've made their mark in fields like entrepreneurship, food, fashion and sports.

Every story reveals the same powerful truth: when ambition is paired with foundational skills and a community of support, the possibilities are endless.

"Everyone has aspirations," said Myra Doria, National Field President of McDonald's USA and proud member of the 1 in 8 community. "I am so proud to be part of the McDonald's brand because of programs like Arches and Ambition that provide ways for our Crew members to pursue those ambitions. These opportunities help our Crew envision a brighter future by connecting them with successful alumni who once stood where they are today."

Give a "Nugget" of Your Appreciation: Celebrate the 1 in 8

Looking for ways to support the Crew who support you? Here's how:

About McDonald's

McDonald's USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to millions of customers every day. Ninety-five percent of McDonald's approximately 13,500 U.S. restaurants are owned and operated by independent business owners. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, and follow us on social: X, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.

Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE McDonald's USA