1 in 8 Americans has worked at McDonald's

A customer receives his food in a McDonald's drive-thru on July 28, 2021 in Houston, Texas. McDonald's corporation has said that its sales are surpassing pre-pandemic levels across the world as more of its dining rooms reopen after being shutdown during the pandemic. The company has also said that menu-price increases, larger to-go orders and its new crispy chicken sandwiches have largely contributed to boosted sales across the U.S. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
A customer receives his food in a McDonald's drive-thru on July 28, 2021 in Houston, Texas. McDonald's corporation has said that its sales are surpassing pre-pandemic levels across the world as more of its dining rooms reopen after being shutdown during the pandemic. The company has also said that menu-price increases, larger to-go orders and its new crispy chicken sandwiches have largely contributed to boosted sales across the U.S. Photo credit (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

“Hamilton” creator Lin Manuel Miranda. Astronaut Katya Echazarreta. Influencer Cody Rigsby. What do they have in common?

They all have been team members at McDonald’s, and they’re not the only ones. In fact, one in eight Americans have worked under the golden arches, according to the fast food giant.

Rachel McAdams, Jeff Bezos, Sharon Stone and Jay leno are also on the list, according to a 2011 report in Insider.

This week, McDonald’s launched an initiative called “1 in 8” to honor this community of McDonald’s employees and alumni. Members of the “1 in 8” crew “will have access to exclusive programming, like mentorships with notable alums, reunions with former teammates and more,” the company explained.

“For 1 in 8 Americans, the McDonald’s restaurant experience offers critical life skills and creates opportunities for meaningful work and connections,” said Tiffanie Boyd, Senior Vice President & Chief People Officer at McDonald’s. “Formally bringing this group together will give past and present crew members alike the chance to continue growing, building their networks and celebrating the special community they represent.”

Limited edition letterman jackets made for the “1 in 8” will also be available to purchase at www.McDonalds1in8.com on Monday, Oct. 16, at 10 a.m. ET, while supplies last.

“Designed by McDonald’s alum and founder of lifestyle brand Robotic Minds Concept, Kendall Hurns tapped into his nostalgia and love for the brand to create this one-of-a-kind jacket, featuring IYKYK surprises for fellow crew,” said a McDonald’s press release. “For each jacket sold, McDonald’s will contribute funding to help exceptional crew members achieve their aspirations through once-in-a-lifetime experiences and opportunities.”

Already, a “1 in 8” event was held this week in New York City.

“It’s no secret that McDonald’s is my day one,” said Rigsby.
“It’s a full circle moment for me to be able to share my journey to inspire others – including those who had the same start as me and used their job at McDonald’s as a jumping off point.”

Members of the “1 in 8” team can also share their stories at  www.McDonalds1in8.com.

Featured Image Photo Credit: (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)