Linda Russell was the child who wanted to save the world. Whether it was through Girl Scouts, her church youth group or simply bringing home stray puppies Linda has always looked for ways to give back. These lessons were learned while growing up in a family always involved in charitable projects or helping those less fortunate.

Linda and her late husband, Hank, moved to Florence in 1999. She was the first employee of WebsterRogers Financial Advisors and currently serves as the Director. "Hank and I believed that we had been blessed beyond all expectations and it was only natural for us to seek ways to provide support to worthy causes" states Linda.

Becoming involved with the work of the McLeod Foundation was a perfect fit. Hank had worked in the non-profit field before his retirement and Linda had been an 11 year employee of the University of Illinois, College of Medicine at Rockford. Medical care was an important cause for this generous couple as health issues had touched their lives numerous times. Linda’s mother and aunts battled cancer and Linda herself is a cancer survivor.

Linda currently serves on the McLeod Foundation Board of Trustees. She is a McLeod Angel, a graduate of McLeod Fellows and works on the Finance Committee, the Grants Committee and the new HOPE Fund Advisory Committee. She is not only generous with her time but has been a donor for many years. In 2012 she decided to make her legacy commitment by designating the McLeod Foundation as the beneficiary of her IRA.

Linda who has recently completed cancer treatment shares, "Through my experiences at the McLeod Cancer Center, I have seen the hand of God at work in the staff as they provided my care." These experiences are motivation as she enthusiastically dedicates her time and gifts to help sustain this level of care for everyone who seeks treatment.

It is a lasting tribute to her family’s values that Linda continues to feel she has received more than she has given. She is still striving to save the world one gift at a time.