By Andi Anderson
The Dean’s Charity Steer Show, hosted by The Ohio State University’s Vice President for Agricultural Administration and College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences Dean Cathann A. Kress, took place on July 30, 2024, at the Ohio State Fair’s Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center.
This year, the event successfully raised $231,470 for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Central Ohio, exceeding its fundraising goal. The event brought together Ohio’s agricultural community to support families with critically ill children, showcasing the remarkable generosity and collective effort of the participants.
Dean Cathann A. Kress expressed her pride in the community’s dedication, stating, “Our 4-H youth and their livestock take a lead role, while the money raised from our supporters, teams, and donors makes a significant difference for families who need to stay near their hospitalized child during one of the most stressful times of their lives.”
The Dean’s Charity Steer Show is not just a competition; it’s a celebration of agriculture, community, and the promising futures of youth. The event emphasizes the vital work of RMHC, which offers a home-away-from-home for families with children receiving medical treatment at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
With the recent expansion, the Columbus Ronald McDonald House is now the largest in the world. Additionally, the event highlights the expertise and contributions of Ohio 4-H program members, who play a central role in the show.
Dee Anders, CEO and Executive Director of the Columbus RMHC chapter, expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support, noting that the funds raised will greatly benefit the charity, enabling them to provide 206 rooms each night for families with critically ill children.
The charity steer show featured 11 teams, each comprising a team captain, media partner, and a 4-H member with their steer. These teams represented various counties and programs across Ohio, including Hancock, Clark, Holmes, Tuscarawas, Hardin, Stark, Clinton, Clermont, Jackson, Wayne, and Crawford counties.
Awards were presented to standout teams, with The McJestic Jewels, presented by McDonald’s, winning Grand Champion, and CoverMyChan, presented by CoverMyMeds, winning Best Steer. Other awards included Showmanship, Best Dressed, People’s Choice, and 4-H Champion.
The event concluded with a symbolic “sale,” where all proceeds from bids went directly to RMHC of Central Ohio, allowing participants and attendees to contribute generously without the actual transfer of livestock. Contributions ranged from $5 to $15,000, showcasing the community’s commitment to supporting this meaningful cause.
Photo Credit: Ohio State University
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle