From the Show Ring to the Ronald McDonald House

Contact: Casey Anderson, Director of Industry Relations, Iowa Beef Industry Council, 515-296-2305

What began in the show ring at the Iowa State Fairgrounds came full circle this fall as youth exhibitors from the 43rd Annual Iowa Governor's Charity Steer Show reunited to deliver the true impact of their summer's work. Their efforts extended beyond dollars raised to personal acts of service.

In late October, participants and their families joined representatives from the Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC) and the Iowa Cattlemen's Association (ICA) for a statewide tour. The group visited each of the three Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) locations in Des Moines, Iowa City, and Sioux City. There, they presented checks totaling $569,000 from this year's show and prepared meals for families staying at the Houses. It was a powerful conclusion to an event centered on compassion, care, and community.

The Show That Started It All

Hosted by Governor Kim Reynolds, the Iowa Beef Industry Council, and the Iowa Cattlemen's Association, the Governor's Charity Steer Show was held August 9 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. The event paired 25 teams consisting of a youth exhibitor, a celebrity showman, a sponsor, and a steer to raise funds through a live auction benefiting RMHC of Iowa.

Under the evaluation of Judge Kirk Steirwalt of Leedey, Oklahoma, and emceed by Bob Quinn of WHO Radio's The Big Show, alongside roving interviewer Brad Hook, the show highlighted the dedication and heart of Iowa's next generation of cattle producers. Among the special guests was U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, marking the first time a sitting Secretary of Agriculture has served as a celebrity showman.

2025 Award Winners

Judge's Grand Champion Steer: "Jimmy," exhibited by Brenna Thie (Mediapolis); celebrity Jeff Angelo; sponsored by the Iowa Bankers Association

Grand Champion Showman: Matt Elbert (Rock Rapids) and his steer "Trice"; celebrity Dr. Dan Grooms; sponsored by the Iowa Veterinary Medical Association & Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine

People's Choice Award: Tucker Freimuth (Lytton) showing "Burt Reynolds"; celebrity Ralph Lents; sponsored by the Iowa Corn Promotion Board

Community Hero Award: Merritt Moss (Hull) and his steer "Big Red," recognized for outstanding community outreach, non-perishable donations, and social media engagement

"It's truly inspiring to see the kids rally together for a cause bigger than any one person, organization, or industry," said Casey Anderson, co-event coordinator for the Iowa Beef Industry Council. "At Iowa Beef, we're proud to help organize an event that showcases the compassion of Iowa's beef community and the lasting difference our producers, youth, and partners can make together."

More Than a Fundraiser, a Movement of Care

Since 1983, the Governor's Charity Steer Show has raised more than $6 million for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, helping families from all 99 counties and across the nation find comfort and care during times of medical hardship.

The recent check presentations and meal-service projects reflect the event's deeper purpose: to show that Iowa's beef community doesn't stop caring when the show ends.

"Having Secretary Brooke Rollins and several other celebrity showmen join us highlighted the common threads that unite all of us in agriculture," said Jenna Bailey, co-event coordinator for the Iowa Cattlemen's Association. "Watching everyone come together for our youth exhibitors and Iowa families made it an exciting and truly memorable day for the entire ag community."

To learn more about the Iowa Governor's Charity Steer Show or to donate directly to RMHC of Iowa, visit https://www.iowagovernorscharitysteershow.com.

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About the Iowa Beef Industry Council: The Iowa Beef Industry Council is funded by the $1-per-head National Beef Checkoff Program and the $0.50-per-head Iowa State Beef Checkoff. Checkoff dollars are invested in beef promotion, consumer information, research, industry information and foreign market development, all with the purpose of strengthening beef demand. For more information, visit https://www.iabeef.org.

About the Iowa Cattlemen's Association: The Iowa Cattlemen's Association (ICA) represents nearly 8,000 beef-producing families and allied businesses, committed to growing Iowa's beef industry through advocacy, leadership, and education.

About Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa: The three independent RMHC Houses in Des Moines, Iowa City, and Sioux City have provided lodging, meals, and support to more than 55,000 families since opening their doors.