Nonprofit raises funds for community improvements
More than 150 people took to the streets around Bull Branch Park Saturday morning for the 2026 Good Life Taylor 5K.
Some ran, some walked, some pushed baby strollers, but all were part of an activity that has helped the nonprofit Good Life Taylor, Texas improve the town’s quality of life since 2013.
The event raised $20,000 for city park projects.
The 5-kilometer race (3.1 miles) is part of an annual fair that raises funds for community projects across the city. The event Oct. 10 included health-related vendor booths, a “Kids 1K” race around the pond for younger participants and a full-on community confetti-egg smashing event.
“We’ve had the best weather here today in a long time, and people of all ages have come out to run,” said organization Vice President Kellie Billings-Ray. “The event is just a fun time for the community to gather. We have chicken bingo, chicken-themed merchandise and a lot of activities.”
Through fundraising events and grants, Good Life Taylor has donated more than $300,000 to community improvements since its inception.
The organization helped fund the Bull Branch disc golf course and playgrounds at Taylor Regional and Murphy parks. They have also contributed to enhancements at the Taylor Animal Shelter and Taylor Public Library.
Good Life Taylor, Texas is a registered 501(c)(3) organization that keeps all funds working in Taylor, officials said. It was founded in 2012 by Julie Rydell, an outdoor enthusiast who also loves keeping chickens.
Chickens show up as a quirky theme throughout Good Life Taylor events.
The Good Life Taylor 5K is the group’s primary annual fundraiser. The organization also partners with other community groups for events during the year, including the Taylor Bird Parade and Youth Bike Rodeo.
“It’s all about improving the quality of life of Taylor residents and giving them opportunities to experience outdoors and encourage activities. That’s what we believe is how people have a good life,” said volunteer Tia Rae Stone.
Stone has been with Good Life Taylor since its inception and is a board member. She said part of the organization’s success is that it works with the city Parks and Recreation Department to determine the community’s needs and how best to invest in Taylor’s outdoor enrichment opportunities.
“Working with the Parks Department is key because they know what people are asking for, they know what’s needed. And I’m so very proud of how far our Parks Department has come in the last five years. There is something going on all the time,” Stone said.
The winner of the 14th annual 5K was Erik Trevino of Elgin with 16 minutes, 36.51 seconds. The fastest woman was Coty Gola of Taylor who crossed the finish line third with 19 minutes, 47.871 seconds.
The 2027 Good Life Taylor 5K is already scheduled for Oct. 9.
