Todd Graves, the billionaire entrepreneur behind Raising Cane's, was surprised to be named parade king in New Orleans before Super Bowl LIX. The city chose him to honor his success as a Louisiana-based businessperson and his commitment to the community. At the Louisiana Legacy Gala, Graves donated $1 million to Walker's Imaginarium, a children's museum within Children's Hospital New Orleans.
Todd Graves, the billionaire entrepreneur behind Raising Cane's, the country's fastest-growing chicken chain, couldn't believe his ears when he was asked to be parade king in New Orleans before Super Bowl LIX. The city of his birth had bestowed upon him this honor, and initially, Graves thought they were mistaken. He jokingly suggested they should choose one of the Mannings instead, someone more famous. However, as he delved deeper into the reasoning behind the invitation, it dawned on him.
They wanted to highlight his success story as a Louisiana-based businessperson. Graves' entrepreneurial journey began in his home state, with 'The Mothership,' his first Raising Cane's, opening in 1996 near the LSU campus. Years later, Raising Cane's boasts over 50,000 employees and operates across 33 states, a testament to Graves' vision and hard work. And according to Graves, they're just getting started.The Super Bowl is more than just a sporting event; it's a hub for business as well. Every major brand seeks to leverage the platform, showcasing products, hosting parties, and engaging with a vast audience. New Orleans, with its vibrant culture and reputation for celebration, is the ideal setting for this spectacle. But beyond the fanfare and entertainment, Graves saw an opportunity to give back to his community. At the Louisiana Legacy Gala, an event honoring football legends, the Mannings, Graves donated $1 million to Walker’s Imaginarium, an innovative interactive children's museum within Children’s Hospital New Orleans. This donation was a result of a playful arm wrestling match between Graves and Eli Manning, during which Graves, true to his word, pledged the funds if he lost. Graves expressed deep admiration for Archie Manning's commitment to the community and emphasized the importance of world-class healthcare for children. He underscored the hospital's dedication to serving every child, regardless of their financial situation.Graves' generosity exemplifies the spirit of New Orleans, a city known for its warmth, resilience, and unwavering support for its own. He sees his success as an opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others and believes that businesses have a responsibility to give back. The donation to Walker's Imaginarium serves as a lasting testament to his commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of children in his hometown. The hospital's president and CEO, Lou Fragoso, acknowledged the crucial role of community support in their mission. He emphasized how individuals like Graves enable them to provide exceptional care to every child in need, reinforcing the belief that together, they can create a brighter future for the community
BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIP COMMUNITY SUPERBOWL NEWORLEANS PHILANTHROPY
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