Whataburger, the beloved Texas-based fast-food chain, has made significant strides in giving back to its communities. Through its signature community program, Feeding Student Success, the company focuses on addressing food insecurity and supporting education initiatives across its 14-state footprint.
Whataburger is offering $600,000 in scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year, with $500,000 coming directly from the company and an additional $100,000 from Dr Pepper. This initiative, now in its third year, aims to provide crucial financial assistance to historically underserved students pursuing higher education.
The company’s commitment to community service extends beyond scholarships. Whataburger Serves organizes opportunities for employees to engage in various projects, ranging from local clean-ups to supporting food banks. This dedication to meaningful community connections has been a cornerstone of Whataburger’s philosophy since its founding over 70 years ago.
Whataburger’s Heritage
Whataburger’s journey from a small burger stand to a beloved regional chain spans over seven decades. The company’s growth and expansion reflect its deep roots in Texas culture and cuisine.
From Burger Stand to Regional Success
Whataburger’s story began in 1950 when Harmon Dobson opened a humble burger stand in Corpus Christi, Texas. His vision was to create a burger so big that customers would exclaim “What a burger!” The first location quickly gained popularity, leading to rapid expansion across Texas.
By the 1960s, Whataburger had become a regional success, with dozens of locations throughout the Lone Star State. The company’s commitment to quality ingredients and made-to-order burgers helped solidify its reputation as a Texan favorite.
Expansion Beyond Texas
Whataburger’s growth didn’t stop at the Texas border. In the 1970s, the chain began venturing into neighboring states. Florida welcomed its first Whataburger in 1979, marking the beginning of a broader expansion strategy.
Over the following decades, Whataburger established a presence in Arizona, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. More recently, the chain has pushed into new territories like Tennessee. Today, Whataburger boasts a 14-state footprint, bringing its signature flavors to customers across the southern United States.
Despite this growth, Whataburger maintains strong ties to its Texas roots, balancing regional expansion with its cherished Lone Star heritage.
Community Involvement and Charity Work
Whataburger actively supports local communities through various initiatives focused on education, food security, and family support. The company’s charitable efforts aim to make a positive impact across Texas and beyond.
Feeding Student Success Initiative
Whataburger’s Feeding Student Success program provides substantial support to students in need. The company donated $100,000 to Communities In Schools, the largest single contribution ever made to the organization by Whataburger. This funding helps ensure students have access to nutritious meals and essential resources.
The initiative extends beyond monetary donations. Whataburger organizes food drives and partners with local schools to distribute meals directly to students. These efforts help combat hunger and promote academic success.
Scholarship Programs for Education
Whataburger offers scholarship opportunities to support higher education aspirations. The company awards annual scholarships to employees and their children, encouraging personal growth and career development.
Additionally, Whataburger partners with local universities to establish scholarship funds for students pursuing degrees in fields such as business, hospitality, and culinary arts. These programs help alleviate financial burdens and create pathways for future leaders in the industry.
Addressing Food Insecurity in the Lone Star State
Whataburger takes a proactive approach to combat food insecurity in Texas. The company collaborates with food banks and distribution centers to provide meals to families in need.
During natural disasters and emergencies, Whataburger mobilizes resources to support affected communities. The company deploys food trucks to serve hot meals and partners with relief organizations to distribute essential supplies.
Whataburger also engages employees in volunteer efforts, organizing regular food drives and sorting events at local food banks.
Supporting Families and Veterans
Whataburger extends its charitable efforts to support families and veterans in Texas. The company partners with organizations that provide housing assistance, job training, and mental health resources for veterans transitioning to civilian life.
For families, Whataburger sponsors events and programs that promote community bonding and childhood development. These include after-school programs, youth sports leagues, and family-friendly festivals.
The company also supports initiatives that assist parents in need, such as diaper banks and school supply drives. These efforts help alleviate financial pressures on families and ensure children have the resources they need to thrive.
Customer Engagement and Appreciation
Whataburger prioritizes building strong connections with its customers through special events and exclusive offers. These initiatives demonstrate the company’s commitment to giving back to its loyal patrons.
Orange Spirit Week Activities
Whataburger’s annual Orange Spirit Week celebrates the brand’s iconic color and fosters community engagement. During this week-long event, Whataburger restaurants across Texas host various activities for customers. These include photo contests, where patrons can win prizes for sharing their best Whataburger-themed pictures on social media. Some locations offer face painting and games for children, creating a family-friendly atmosphere. Employees often wear special Orange Spirit Week t-shirts, adding to the festive ambiance.
Exclusive Deals and Thank-You Coupons
Whataburger regularly rewards its customers with special promotions and discounts. The company distributes Thank-You Coupons to recognize customer loyalty. These coupons may offer free items such as a medium fry or a 32-ounce drink with purchase. Whataburger also runs limited-time deals, like discounted combo meals or buy-one-get-one offers. During certain holidays or local events, some Whataburger locations provide free meals to first responders or military personnel as a gesture of appreciation for their service.
Culinary Innovations
Whataburger’s menu showcases a blend of classic favorites and innovative offerings. The chain continually develops new items while staying true to its Texas roots and commitment to quality.
Signature Burgers and Menu Items
Whataburger’s iconic orange-and-white striped wrappers contain some of the most beloved burgers in Texas. The Whataburger, a 100% pure beef patty on a 5-inch bun, remains the cornerstone of the menu.
The Monterey Melt combines two beef patties with melted American and Monterey Jack cheeses, grilled peppers and onions, and jalapeño ranch sauce. For spice lovers, the Jalapeño & Cheese Whataburger kicks things up a notch.
Whatachick’n sandwiches offer a tasty alternative, featuring a crispy breaded chicken filet. The Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich layers three chicken strips with tangy barbecue sauce.
All burgers and sandwiches are made-to-order, allowing customers to customize toppings and condiments to their liking.
Unique Breakfast Offerings
Whataburger’s breakfast menu stands out with its array of hearty options. The Breakfast on a Bun sandwich combines eggs, cheese, and a choice of bacon or sausage on a toasted bun.
Taquitos, a Tex-Mex inspired breakfast staple, come filled with eggs and a choice of bacon, sausage, or potato. The Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit pairs a crispy chicken strip with sweet honey butter on a flaky biscuit.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Cinnamon Roll and Pancake Platter offer indulgent morning treats. Breakfast is served from 11 p.m. to 11 a.m., catering to both early birds and night owls.
Corporate Responsibility
Whataburger takes its role as a corporate citizen seriously. The company has implemented various initiatives to give back to communities across Texas and beyond.
One of Whataburger’s key programs is Feeding Student Success. This initiative focuses on addressing food insecurity and supporting education through college resource rooms and scholarships.
The fast food chain also engages in community service projects. During its annual Orange Spirit Week, employees participate in activities to share pride, care, and love with local neighborhoods.
Whataburger partners with organizations to support food drives and student reading programs. These efforts align with the company’s commitment to nourishing communities beyond just serving meals.
In San Antonio, where Whataburger was founded, the company maintains strong ties. It contributes to local charities and participates in community events, reinforcing its Texas roots.
Donations play a crucial role in Whataburger’s corporate responsibility efforts. The company encourages customers to contribute to causes like supporting military families’ education through in-store fundraising campaigns.
Whataburger also emphasizes environmental stewardship. The company has adopted sustainable practices in its operations to reduce its ecological footprint.