Just hours after graduating from Mill Creek High School, 18-year-old Mykale Baker returned to work at Burger King—still wearing his graduation stole and medals. While many of his classmates were out celebrating, Baker stepped behind the counter to help during a busy evening shift, unaware that his quiet act of responsibility would soon capture national attention. He had initially stopped by the restaurant with his mother and grandmother to celebrate, but seeing the team short-staffed, he didn’t hesitate to pitch in. Among the customers that night was Maria Mendoza, who had just come from her own daughter’s graduation. Moved by Baker’s humility and cheerful spirit, she filmed a brief video and posted it to TikTok, urging: “TikTok, do your thing!”

The video quickly went viral, garnering over 4.5 million views. Inspired by Baker’s work ethic, Mendoza started a GoFundMe to support his college dreams, setting a $60,000 goal. Donations poured in, ultimately raising more than $230,000. On May 26, Mendoza surprised Baker with the first $6,000, bringing him to tears. His sister, Mycah, reflected on the moment, saying, “That’s just who he is.” In addition to the GoFundMe, the Burger King Foundation awarded Baker a $10,000 scholarship. With these resources, he now plans to attend technical college and pursue a career in mechanics. What began as a small, unnoticed gesture became a powerful story of integrity, hard work, and the unexpected ways kindness is rewarded.