AMES, Iowa – The Iowa State Fair is quickly approaching, and planning for this year’s Governor’s Charity Steer Show is well underway. This event, hosted by Gov. Kim Reynolds and coordinated by the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) and the Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC), highlights the compassionate nature of Iowa’s cattle producers, as all proceeds from the event go to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa.
Lucas Sheehan of Remsen, Iowa, has been selected to join the Governor’s Charity Steer Show lineup of exceptional youth to show his steer at the August 9 event at this year’s Iowa State Fair. Each steer is exhibited by a youth representative and a guest celebrity chosen by the steer’s sponsor. Twenty-five steers will be shown this year, with Gov. Kim Reynolds as one of the celebrities showing in the ring.
“The Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show highlights the good nature of the beef cattle industry and brings together a valuable collaboration between producers, industry supporters, youth, and community namesakes for an important cause,” said Jenna Bailey, ICA member services and Governor’s Charity Steer Show co-chair. “It is an honor to serve the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, which provides a crucial service to families in need. The youth participants of the Governor’s Charity Steer Show showcase the giving nature of our industry and offer a local connection to support this meaningful event.”
The Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show has been held since 1983 and has raised nearly $6 million since its inception. Last year, the show raised more than $568,000, setting a new record for money raised. Funds are raised through online donations, sponsorships, and an auction of steers following the show.
All money raised benefits the three independent Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, located in Des Moines, Iowa City, and Sioux City. These three houses have served over 55,000 families from all 50 states and 62 foreign countries. Families from all 99 counties in Iowa have benefited from the Ronald McDonald Houses of Iowa, too.
“The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa is a worthwhile charity and great partner,” said Casey Anderson, IBIC director of industry relations and Governor’s Charity Steer Show co-chair. “The houses provide a home away from home for families of seriously ill or hospitalized children. It isn’t hard to imagine the burden lifted, during an already difficult time, knowing you have a place to stay near your child, thanks to Ronald McDonald Houses.”
The first step to show success is securing the steer, and we thank Lucas for stepping up to support this great cause. Lucas is the son of Dan and Lori Sheehan. He will be going into tenth grade at Remsen St. Mary’s in the fall. Lucas has been showing cattle for six years. Lucas is excited for this opportunity to follow in his mother’s footsteps, who participated as a youth exhibitor in 1998. Lucas and his steer, Rocky, will be joined by Brian Feldpausch, vice president of the Iowa Farm Bureau, as their celebrity. This team is sponsored by the Iowa Farm Bureau.
If you are interested in supporting Lucas Sheehan, please consider donating online or attending the show/auction to contribute. The Governor’s Charity Steer Show is being held in Pioneer Pavilion at the Iowa State Fair on Saturday, August 9 at 4:30 p.m., then join us for the live auction following the show. For additional information about the Governor’s Charity Steer Show or to donate, visit www.iowagovernorscharitysteershow.com
