Beloved McDonald's Employee Russell O'Grady Made Waves for People with Disabilities

This man is retiring after 32 years at McDonald’s.

Russell O’Grady began working at McDonald’s in 1986 at the age of 18. Now 50, he has reportedly become an icon at the restaurant, paving the way for others with disabilities to hold long-term jobs.

O’Grady received support and training from Jobsupport, a program that helps people with intellectual disabilities find paid work. He was one of the first to have access to the program.

“Russell’s impact on people in his community is without a doubt exceptional,” Jobsupport assistant manager Wynn Visser stated to CTV News.

Jobsupport partners with 75 McDonald’s locations. Clients stay employed there for nine years on average.

“We have to really start with thanking McDonald’s, and their insight, and Jobsupport, and the people supporting Russell throughout the years, because without the initiative, lots of people like Russell wouldn’t have the jobs that they do today, lots of people like Russell wouldn’t have the jobs they do today, and they wouldn’t have the reward it gives them, which is a pride, a boost to their self-esteem…” said O’Grady’s father Geoff.

O’Grady is reportedly retiring due to health reasons, but Visser says he will keep busy with new activities like dog therapy and bowling.