Giving Back

Wendy’s was founded with the belief that a company should do more than sell a product or service. It should support the communities where it does business.

Our founder, Dave Thomas, was adopted as a child. He carried that experience with him throughout his life, with a strong desire to help other children in need find their forever homes.

Therefore, our community involvement has been particularly focused on children, on their potential and on helping them develop that potential into the realization of their dreams, whatever those might be.

DTFA kids
OUR VALUES
  • Quality is our recipe
  • Do the right thing
  • Treat people with respect
  • Profit means growth
  • Give something back

Dave's Legacy

Wendys Wonderful Kids

Wendy's Wonderful Kids is a groundbreaking program that funds full-time adoption recruiters in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Canada. Learn more.

Wendys Wonderful Kids
Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption

The mission of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption is to increase the number of adoptions of waiting children from North America’s foster care systems. Learn more.

foster children
Wendy's High School Heisman

Honoring the top high school scholars, athletes, and citizens in the country. Learn more.

Heisman
Our Commitment to U.S. Military Veterans

Wendy's and Veterans Advantage have partnered to provide Veterans Advantage members special WendyMail offers throughout the year. Learn more.

Veterans Advantage
Unadoptable is Unacceptable

Wendy's believes every child deserves a family. That's why we've worked with the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption for more than 22 years. Watch video.

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Wendy's Week of Service

In Spring 2015, more than 140 Wendy’s employees from our Dublin Restaurant Support Center showed what it means to “Give Something Back” by volunteering during our bi-annual weeks of service. Watch video.

Volunteers
Community Ambassador Grant Program

Wendy's recognizes employees who are committed to causes they support through their volunteer efforts. Learn more.

James Behrens
The Dave Golf Tournament

Named after our founder and put in place to benefit his Foundation, The Dave unites friends and associates of Wendy’s while also raising awareness and funds to support foster care adoption. Sponsorship.

Dave Gold Tournament