In the heart of Dallas, Theo Murdaugh has turned his lifelong passion for running into a nonprofit movement that blends physical fitness with economic empowerment, drawing hundreds of participants from Black and brown communities to combat health disparities while bolstering local businesses.
Murdaugh, a 15-year veteran of the automotive industry, founded Run It Up Dallas in March 2024 after recognizing a gap in inclusive running groups for people of color. The organization, now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, aims to promote cardiovascular health and mental wellness in communities disproportionately affected by heart disease and hypertension. What began as a small gathering of about 20 runners has exploded to roughly 300 regular participants within months, meeting three times a week for runs that cater to all levels from walkers to marathon trainees.
Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Murdaugh’s journey to Dallas started with a move from Houston in late 2019. He initially launched ZFT Run Club in March 2020, seeking to create a “family-style” atmosphere amid the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. That group grew to 189 members in two years, emphasizing diversity and encouragement for beginners. By 2024, it evolved into Run It Up Dallas, expanding its scope to include health screenings in partnership with organizations like the Black Heart Association.
At its core, Run It Up Dallas builds community through movement. Sessions feature DJ music, group stretches and pace groups that make running feel like a celebration rather than an intimidation. “Run It Up Dallas is about more than just running; it’s about creating a family that supports and uplifts each other,” Murdaugh said in a statement. Participants range from novices building confidence to advanced runners qualifying for events like the Boston Marathon. Monthly social events and collaborations with East Dallas businesses offer perks, while community service projects raise funds locally.
The grassroots economics component sets Run It Up apart. The club deliberately patronizes Black-owned businesses for events and partnerships, driving economic opportunity in underserved areas. Murdaugh, who balances his role as executive director with a sales position at Cars Direct, envisions this as a way to build wealth alongside wellness. “Movement just brings it together,” he noted in an Instagram reel highlighting the blend of urban wellness and economic empowerment.
In February 2026, Murdaugh was featured in “We Built This,” a series presented by Spectrum celebrating innovative Black business leaders during Black History Month. The episode, hosted by Tashara Parker, explored how Run It Up Dallas drives community and economic opportunity through running, with Spectrum‘s affiliation underscoring its role in powering community infrastructure via connectivity. Murdaugh shared the interview widely on social media, amplifying the nonprofit’s mission.
Growth has been viral, fueled by social media and word-of-mouth. A single video propelled attendance from 30-40 to 200-300 weekly runners. Now with a 15-person leadership team, the organization plans national expansion to historically Black colleges and universities, hosting free health clinics to extend its impact.
Murdaugh’s transition from corporate life to community leader reflects a broader trend in urban fitness initiatives. From his early days completing half marathons to leading one of Texas’ largest running communities, he credits delegation and vision-sharing for success. Participants echo the sentiment, describing the group as transformative for both body and spirit.
As Dallas grapples with health inequities, Run It Up Dallas stands as a model of how grassroots efforts can foster lasting change. Murdaugh’s mantra: Start small, run far.
We are proud to partner with Spectrum to shine a light on entrepreneurs crafting their own legacies and shifting communities. #WeBuiltThis
