The Governor?s Charity Steer Show is an annual event that helps raise funds for the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMH) in Iowa. There are three RMH locations: Sioux City, Des Moines, and Iowa City. These houses offer a base of operations and support for the families of children who are battling major health issues. Ronald McDonald House Charities believes that families have enough to worry about when they are going through a medical event and that they shouldn?t have to worry about where they are staying and how they can keep the rest of the family unit functioning.
However, RMH cannot do this without the help of donations. Since 1983, the show has raised an estimated $4.1 million for the three Iowa RMH locations. This has helped over 50,000 families.
This year?s show will be held on August 14th and returns to the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Last year?s show was temporarily moved to Iowa State University in Ames, because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The event begins with a parade of the steers from the cattle barn and makes its way to the Livestock Pavilion for the 4:30 show and competition. Afterward, the auction will be held to sell the steers and raise money. Twenty-four steers will be in this year?s show. They are sponsored by Iowa organizations and have a Celebrity and the youth who have raised these Iowa cattle.
Casey Anderson is the Director of Industry Relations for the Iowa Beef Industry Council. She talks about what it takes to get a steer matched up with a sponsor and celebrity show person. The Council is Partnered with the Iowa Cattlemen?s Association in putting on the show, and getting the steers paired up.
Anderson says that it is more than just doing the preparation for the show, there is also the opportunity to tell a few stories about the families who are using the services of the RMH, and their involvement in the show or in the cattle industry.
There is a lot of prep work in getting the kids ready before the show. The steers and kids start showing up at the beginning of the show and get them ready for the Saturday Show. This includes advocacy training, and a day helping at the Des Moines RMH.
The biggest part of the event is the auction. Casey Anderson talks about the long-standing connection between individuals and businesses to be a part of supporting this cause and making a difference in the lives of these families.
Fundraising is already happening by the steer sponsors. Anderson discusses how you can support your local team, donate anytime online, or even bid in the auction online.
To learn more about the Iowa Governor?s Charity Steer Show, or to donate, visit their website.
