9-16-2025 4:28pm

First-Ever Judd’s Pay it Forward Picnic Raises Over $90,000 for Families in Need

Dustin Terry Editor

The Paris community came together in a powerful way on Saturday, September 6, as the first-ever Judd’s Pay it Forward Picnic proved to be an overwhelming success, raising an incredible $90,075 to support families with children battling life-threatening or terminal illnesses.

A Day of Community and Compassion

Hosted at The Rail Yard, the picnic was a celebration of generosity, featuring live music, kids’ games, delicious plates from Scholl Brothers BBQ, and a spirited auction. Families enjoyed an atmosphere filled with laughter, hope, and a shared commitment to helping neighbors in need.

The event was made possible through the generosity of local sponsors, volunteers, and the people of Paris. Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to Michael O’Neal, Bulletproof, and Common Ground, who filled the day with music at no cost, and to The Rail Yard, which donated the venue. Services from A1 Sanitation and Sanitation Solutions were also provided free of charge.

Generosity in Action

Title sponsors included The Beaver Bash Brothers, 247 Mesa, Big Country, and Archer Construction, alongside more than 30 local businesses and individuals who stepped up to support the cause.

During the picnic, two families were surprised with checks for $10,000 each, offering immediate relief for living and medical expenses. These gifts embodied the mission of Judd’s Pay it Forward, a nonprofit born from one family’s journey and dedicated to easing the burden for others.

Inspired by Judd’s Story

The organization’s namesake, Judd, inspired his father, Cheyney Bryan, to create a nonprofit after their family experienced the compassion of Paris firsthand.

“When we were walking this journey with my son, Judd, we experienced love and generosity from this community at every turn,” Bryan shared. “Our goal with this nonprofit is to pay it forward to others who are facing a similar battle.”

Treasurer Mary Payne echoed that sentiment, expressing her gratitude for the community’s overwhelming response:

“We started this process with the hopes of giving back to others, and while we knew this community would show its support, we never imagined reaching $90K in our first year. This has been a testament to how great Paris is—our local businesses and individuals who give from their hearts to help others in need.”

Looking Ahead

Bryan also emphasized the importance of being able to respond quickly when families face urgent needs:

“There are times when families may need something urgently and can’t wait for outside resources. We hope to be a local resource to help meet qualifying needs of families and children who find themselves facing unimaginable challenges throughout the year.”

With such a strong first showing, the Judd’s Pay it Forward Picnic will return next year, continuing its mission to bring hope, relief, and community spirit to local families.

Those interested in getting involved or supporting the cause can contact Cheyney Bryan at (903) 517-9256 or visit www.juddspicnic.com.