x
Breaking News
More () »

Maryville girl inspires realty company to help children in need

If we all had just a little more faith, we might be able to accomplish what Faith Russell has at just 10-year-old.

"I think as children they believe that anything is possible. For adults, it's hard for us to do. We see all the negatives and all the bad all the time," said Faith's mom, Robin Russell.

We first met Faith in 2014, when she decided she wanted to compete in 5K races despite her battle with Spina Bifida.

Since then, she's crossed 27 finish lines.

But that's just one of her passions. Faith and her brother, Griffin are also dedicated to helping children in need.

"I just love the idea of giving kids Christmas," said Faith.

Her family started packing shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti.

"Griffin wanted us to bring all those kids home. So I tried to explain we couldn't do that. I found Operation Christmas Child as a way for him to feel like he was giving back to the children," Robin Russell said, "He was broken for those children who had lost everything. That year was the first year we packed."

They started with a few boxes and each year got more people involved. Last year, with the help of their church, they packed 500 shoe boxes full of toys and necessities.

NBC Nightly News featured their family. Faith shared with the nation her goal of packing 20,000 shoe boxes.

"I, as her mother, did not think that would ever happen," said Robin Russell.

The story caught the attention of Mo Anderson, CEO of Keller Williams Realty. She invited Faith to speak to 12,000 employees at their national conference in New Orleans this year.

"Faith really inspires us. She has a disability that does not slow her down or stop her. It gives me goose bumps when I talk about it. It gives us the motivation to want to help to give back," said Keller Williams realtor, Susie Frost, of Maryville.

Keller Williams pledged to help Faith reach her goal and multiple it by 10.

"Keller Williams around the world has committed to 200,000 Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes by September 1," Frost said.

"My goal was 20,000 but a lady heard 200,000 so I was like, 'Oh what the heck, let's do 200,000," Faith said.

"It's so amazing to see the good. There is still good in the world and we're just so excited to be a part of it," Robin Russell said.

The Russells are also planning to adopt a child from Haiti. Keller Williams donated $30,000 to help them fund the adoption.

On September 10th at 9 a.m., you can help Faith pack 20,000 shoe boxes at her Team Faith 5K. Email Robin@goteamfaith.com to help. Sign up to race here.

Before You Leave, Check This Out