McDonald's Employee Surprised with $1,000 And VIP Lakers Tickets

MARINA DEL REY, CA — What Marina Del Rey McDonald's employee Korron Kendrick considers normal at his job, actually brightens the days of his regular customers, his crew-mates and the community.

On Friday, Kendrick walked into work not knowing that his managers would surprise him with a $1,000 check to help with his school expenses as a Kinesiology major at Santa Monica College and a VIP Lakers package with tickets to see his favorite team. Everyone in the room was misty-eyed explaining their gratitude for Kendrick's six years of service.

"I have no words," Kendrick said. "Even before I clock in, my mindset is 'how can I make these guys' days a lot easier?' When I see every customer smiling, when they say thank you, even the customers that take a few seconds to say 'I appreciate you'... the little things are what drives me."

His kindness inspired Los Angeles Fire Department's Clayton Holt to nominate him for McDonald's "Thank You Crew" recognition, which recognizes the company's employees for work that goes above and beyond. Over the years Holt visited many McDonald's locations, but his experience with Kendrick at the Marina Del Rey location on his way to work felt like the right fit for him.

"It's just always a pleasant experience every time you come here, I just always look forward to hearing his voice," Holt said. "We need to step out and recognize other people more often for those who really go out of their way to make our days better, and that's what I feel Korron is all about."

Kendrick's customers aren't the only people who appreciate his hard work, his managers say he stands out from the rest. They said he always asks how he can make their jobs easier and is the only person who asks how they are doing.

Restaurant owner Tawnie Blade said that Kendrick is a shining example of what McDonald's stands for. The job he does is not easy, but Blake said he always comes in with a smile on his face and puts his best attitude forward.

"I'm so grateful that Korron is one of our employees," Blade said. "I feel so blessed to be able to recognize him for the hard work that he does every day."