Expanding on the successful Bacon Buddies swine shows at the Iowa State Fair, the Iowa Pork Producers Association encourages groups across the state to organize their own shows with the opportunity to receive funding to help cover event expenses.
The Bacon Buddies shows, held in cooperation with Special Olympics Iowa, give individuals with disabilities the opportunity to take a pig into the showring, talk with a livestock judge in a public setting, experience acceptance by working with 4-H and FFA mentors and snag a blue ribbon for their efforts, says the release.
“Bacon Buddies is a great opportunity for our Special Olympics Iowa athletes to be exposed to something new and socialize with friends.” says John Kliegl, president and CEO of Special Olympics Iowa. “Our athletes want to do what their peers are doing, and it’s a great opportunity to work with the 4-H and FFA youth who see them as their equals. It’s all about equality and a great partnership with the Iowa Pork Producers Association.”
Along with the experience in the showring, connections, friendships and memories are a large part of the event, says Trish Cook, IPPA president.
“Those of us in the pork industry know that when you work pigs together, you develop relationships. Our effort here is to honor our We Care principles of caring for people and for our communities,” Cook adds.
IPPA has established ‘Bucks for Bacon Buddies’ to provide groups $500 to be used for event signage, t-shirts, awards, advertising and other expenses. Visit the Bacon Buddies page on the IPPA website for more details.
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