AMES, Iowa – Another year of the Iowa State Fair is just around the corner, and the excitement for this year’s annual Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show is mounting. 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.
Hundreds of fairgoers will attend the August 15 event, featuring youth, industry supporters, local celebrities, and of course, steers. Each steer is exhibited by a local youth representative and a guest celebrity showman selected by the steer’s sponsor. We will welcome 25 show teams into the ring this year.
“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 over $6 million since its inception. Last year, the show raised more than $569,000, setting yet another 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 many 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.”
If you are interested in supporting the Governor’s Charity Steer Show, 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 15, at 4:30 p.m. Then follow us to the Penningroth Center for the live auction, where additional funds are raised, and records are broken. For additional information about the Governor’s Charity Steer Show or to donate, visit www.iowagovernorscharitysteershow.com.
