Whataburger has long been part of the greater San Antonio community through its many restaurants fulfilling our craving for a really great burger, as well as its support of community initiatives. But since the Orange W moved its corporate headquarters—and more than half its Family Members (“employees” in other companies)—to San Antonio in 2009, we’ve gotten to better know this company’s character – and that of its chairman, Tom Dobson.
 
A key area of personal involvement for Mr. Dobson is service on the board of Respite Care of San Antonio, the respected nonprofit organization founded in 1987 to provide support for families caring for children with developmental disabilities. During its 29 years, Respite Care’s services expanded to include the state’s only two licensed emergency shelters for children with special needs; ongoing temporary care at locations throughout the community; a developmental daycare; foster residential programs; and foster placement services.
 
“Tom Dobson has tremendous business acumen, as evidenced by the growth of Whataburger,” said Bert Pfiester, president and CEO of Respite Care of San Antonio. “Those insights have helped us make better decisions for our organization. However, it’s his passion for the mission and compassion for the children that have truly propelled us toward our goals.”
 
To acknowledge their service to all children, Tom Dobson and The Whataburger Family were honored on May 5, 2016, at Respite Care’s 14^th annual “A Celebration of Love & Children”.  Nearly 300 guests attended the event, held outdoors at The Vista at Valero. Their generosity, through attendance and participation in silent and live auctions, helped Respite Care raise record levels of funding needed to sustain services for children with special needs and the families who love them. This tremendous outpouring of support came from a shared love of children and a genuine respect for a humble and inspiring leader who has kept the human heart in business. For more information, visit www.respitecaresa.org.
 
In accompanying photo, Respite Care President and CEO Bert Pfiester greets Whataburger Chairman Tom Dobson and wife Nora at the 14^th Annual “A Celebration of Love & Children.”