“Empowering Wellness: Hays County Nonprofit Champions Community Connection and Healthy Living”

What initiated as a collective dedication of local parents towards wellbeing and fitness for their families and associates a decade ago has evolved into a community-focused nonprofit eager to support its area flourish.

For The Love of Go, a nonprofit organization located in Hays County, aims to “urge individuals to get active” by arranging, directing, and promoting healthy endeavors like 5K runs and walking/running groups.

“Our goal was to establish an event where individuals could come, engage, and feel secure, possibly igniting their enthusiasm for fitness,” Jennifer Crosby, a co-founder of For The Love of Go expressed.

Origins

In the middle of 2008, Crosby and her spouse, Todd, elected to adopt a healthier diet and engage in regular exercise. Their son Jacob, who is now pursuing his college education, accompanied them on their journey.

“Initially, we did this by registering for races in the area once per month; the three of us participated, taking turns pushing our son in the stroller while the other ran,” Crosby shared.

They relocated from Lockhart to Kyle when Jacob started attending Negley Elementary School. Crosby became part of the school’s PTA due to her interest in assisting with its annual 5K and ended up overseeing the race, the first of countless to follow.

As they approached the transition to middle school, the PTA parents discovered ways to keep the community active, dedicating time to assist with other schools’ and organizations’ races, ultimately leading to the formation of For The Love of Go.

Crosby mentioned that the 2013 Hays County Community Health Needs Assessment Report fueled her ambition, indicating that residents desired more local wellness initiatives.

“In 2013 we registered with the Secretary of State, and then in 2014, we actually applied for 501(c)(3) status and obtained it within days, which we interpreted as God’s affirmation that ‘Yes, this is your calling,’” Crosby said.

Influence

For The Love of Go organizes and hosts races in Hays County throughout the year, including well-known community events like Kyle’s Resolution Run, as well as races intended to generate funds for local schools and businesses.

Crosby stated that For The Love of Go events are inclusive, ensuring that they cater to those who may be blind, deaf, in a wheelchair, or running with blades.

“We welcome everyone,” she said. “All are invited. Whether you’re a runner, walker… pushing a stroller, bringing your dog, or your grandmother, everyone is welcome, and there’s always a volunteer role. There’s a place at the starting line for everyone. We just want you to join and be a part of a community of individuals.”

Crosby highlights the significance of community within For The Love of Go. She notes that the participants, volunteers, as well as the organization’s donors and board members contribute to the success of For The Love of Go.

“It is a whole community,” Crosby said. “It’s a unique group of people collaborating for progress and wellness.”