“It's a Heart Thing”: Walmart drivers roll into Washington County for one very special little girl

On April 12, a convoy of compassion will roll through Washington County – and at the center of it all will be a beautiful, sweet, and very happy five-year-old named Raelynn “Rae Rae” Smith.

Rae Rae, who has Down Syndrome and is nonverbal, doesn't need words to make an impact. Her infectious smile, outgoing spirit, and boundless energy speak volumes. And this year, she will be honored as part of the Walmart Heart Program – a nationwide tradition of love and support rolling into Washington County for the very first time.

The event will begin at 10 a.m. At the Salem Speedway, where Walmart truck drivers from across the region will gather alongside local emergency responders, police, fire escorts, and Walmart associates. The parade will travel down Highway 56 to the Salem Walmart, where Rae Rae will be celebrated as an honorary Walmart truck driver.

Inside the store, employees will line up to cheer her on as she's showered with gifts, love, and loud applause – all for a little girl who brings light everywhere she goes.

Rae Rae lives in Medora with her loving parents, Ashley and Bobby Smith, and her four big brothers – Ethan, Treyton, Wesson, and Kaydon. She's a tomboy through and through, happiest when she's swinging, kicking a soccer ball, or playing outside. When indoors, she loves time on her tablet or sharing laughs with her family. And while she's never met a stranger, her family says she's especially close with her dad. “She's a total daddy's girl,” Ashley shared.

Rae Rae also attends preschool in Medora, where her joyful presence is felt by everyone she meets.

Her story now becomes part of a much bigger legacy – the Walmart Heart Program, which began in 2006 when four Walmart truck drivers in Seymour, were inspired to give back to children with medical needs and special challenges. Their mission was born from a late-night act of kindness involving a boy named Scott and a truck driver who stayed with him through the night before surgery. That simple act sparked a movement.

Drivers in the program make children honorary truck drivers, complete with uniforms, truck rides, and heartfelt celebrations. The program now approaching its 20th year, has touched the lives of thousands of children across the country.

For Greg Carter, one of the founders, who has been driving for Walmart for 35 years, the reason for it all is simple: “It's a heart thing,” he said. “Walmart drivers are astonishing. I'm proud to work with who I work with.”

Salem Walmart store manager, Mike King has worked closely with the Walmart Heart team to ensure Rae Rae's day is filled with unforgettable moments.

The public is warmly invited to come out and support Rae Rae – to line the parade route, wave, cheer, and help create a day this little girl, and her family, will never forget.

Because when a community comes together with heart, extraordinary things happen.