Mother and daughter duo Mary Hopkins-Navies and Imani Ford own and operate seven McDonald’s locations in Prince George’s County. With Hopkins-Navies having served as a franchise operator for nearly 34 years locally, the mother is elated to pass on the family entrepreneurial tradition, and the two are extremely proud to provide a service to their longtime neighbors.
“Supporting Black owned businesses is an investment in the community. We help to strengthen the local economy, create jobs, and keep local dollars in the community,” said Ford. “This also sets an example for the next generation to show that dreams are achievable.”
Decades ago, Hopkins-Navies was deeply inspired when Washington Informer founder Dr. Calvin Rolark was able to assist a neighbor in need.
“Dr. Calvin Rolark was able to provide a young woman with a scholarship after her mother stated her disappointment in her daughter not having received one,” said Hopkins-Navies. “This has inspired me to this very day, and has shown me the power of an entrepreneurial spirit.”
To this day, Hopkins-Navies and Ford are intentional about giving back.
“We have an investment in our employees and our community,” said Ford. “This shows in how we support local schools and nonprofit, community outreach events.”
Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (D) and local business owner LaTasha Ward have both taken to social media to encourage followers to shop at the duo’s McDonald’s sites throughout the area, including:
- 8710 Central Avenue, Landover
- 20 Ritchie Road, Capitol Heights
- 4777 Allentown Road, Suitland
- 966 East Swan Creek Road, Fort Washington
- 7100 Allentown Road, Fort Washington
- 6515 Old Alexandria Ferry Road, Clinton
- 8905 Stuart Lane, Clinton
While some local restaurants have scaled back their family-friendly options in the pursuit of lower spending, Hopkins-Navies and Ford are doubling down on their dedication to community space. They host a game night of pinochle every Thursday and Friday at one of their locations, providing beverages, quality customer service, and a convenient meeting space for those who attend.
“We are planning a Bingo night, a Karaoke night, and a game night, with dates upcoming. We want to create a welcoming space for local families to connect,” said Ford. “We’ve even created small local libraries, just a small way to promote literacy and a welcoming environment. We understand the unique needs and values of our neighborhood all while upholding the gold standard that McDonald’s is known for.”