A local couple is leading the Operation Christmas Child effort locally, collecting donations throughout the year to help families in need at Christmas.
Betsy Ill says Sue and Jeff McMahon volunteer to make a difference for local families and for children around the world. She's known the McMahons for more than 20 years, and says of their volunteering spirit, "The just have the biggest hearts."
The McMahons didn't hesistate to volunteer, when they were needed to help the Samaritan's Purse, providing aid to people in need around the world. Their volunteering is more like a full-time job. That's why Betsy wanted to pay it forward to Sue and Jeff.
She presented the couple with $300, from Ascentra Credit Union and News 8, to honor their work.
They collected 20 percent more donations this year than last year, filling 17,425 shoe boxes with contributed items. That's enough to fill three semi trucks.
As Christmas approaches, they're preparing to ship items overseas. After the first of the year, they will start all over again, organizing next year's drive.
They say the reason they give is simple.
"We were able to retire early so, we still have the strength and energy, and so this is our opportunity to give back," Sue said.