Smiles were abounded with a few joyful tears on Saturday as two local young women were celebrated.As part of the Walmart Heart organization, individuals with special needs are recognized as honorary truck drivers and are treated to an unique experience.The latest to be honored were Emily and Sarah Carroll of Warrenton, who joined family and friends for their special day Jan. 28 that included a pizza party and shopping spree.The morning began at Warrenton High School, where local emergency personnel joined a fleet of Walmart semi trucks adorned with photos of the girls for a caravan to the Warrenton Walmart location.“The girls’ cousin works at our St. James facility and asked us to do an event for the girls,” said driver Ken Nelson. “We get nominations in a lot of ways, and this is just one of them. But it always feels good brighten their day.”Emily and Sarah arrived at Walmart to supporters holding posters and a balloon launch followed in the parking lot. The celebration then moved inside, where the girls were presented with gifts and plaques while enjoying a pizza party and cake.“It’s exciting,” said Sarah, as she eagerly opened a tablet and other gifts. “I like that everyone came here.”The day concluded with a $250 shopping spree for each of the girls, who pushed around carts specifically decorated with their interests.“Awesome,” was the word Emily used to describe her experience after checking out with a cart full of favorites.Emily said “going shopping” was her favorite part of the day. She chose My Little Pony toys and headphones, among other items.Walmart Manager Terry Dwyer says he was overjoyed when the organization contacted him wanting to honor Emily and Sarah and host an event at his location.“It’s just such a great thing that the Walmart fleet truck drivers put on and what they’ve done to make this all happen,” said Dwyer. “And our department managers are here on their days off to help set this up and make it happen.”Event organizer Ken Nelson says the program has honored around 80 young people since it began in 2010. Truck drivers from surrounding states, including from the Bentonville, Ark., headquarters, join together to provide a unique experience for those with special needs.

Emily Carroll points out a basketball she wants while going on a shopping spree that was part of the Walmart Heart organization’s celebration of she and her sister, Sarah. The Warrenton girls are among 80 young people across the country recognized as honorary Walmart truck drivers since the program began in 2010. The girls were also treated to a pizza party, gifts and cake on Saturday. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe

Sarah Carroll, left, and sister, Emily, are presented with plaques designating them as honorary truck drivers through the Walmart Heart organization that recognizes young people with special needs. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe

 Guests attending the celebration for Emily and Sarah Carroll through the Walmart Heart organization release balloons in front of the store on Saturday morning. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe