Iowa Youth 4th to 12th grades

Applications must be postmarked by March 15, 2024

Rules and Entry Form

Each year, the Iowa Dairy Goat Association promotes interest in dairy goats in our state. One of the ways we encourage our young people in this aspect of agriculture is through our Share-A-Kid program.                                                                                                                                                        

  • Iowa statewide essay contest open to youth in 4th -12th grades and who are a member of IDGA, 4-H, FFA, or other agricultural groups. 
  • Must write an essay of 100 words or more, telling why the youth would like to have a dairy goat, how they are going to take care of her, etc.  Spelling, content, and effort count. The essay can include drawings, photos, or any other creative touches. 
  • Breeds available are: Toggenburg, Oberhasli, LaMancha, Saanen, Alpine, Nigerian Dwarf, Nubian, and Recorded Grade.
  • Within the first year, winners are required to show their animal at a county fair or open class goat show.

Applicants will be notified by late April about the status of his or her entry.

Questions? E-mail Beth Buscher Konen at  [email protected]. See the entry form to read the full details of the contest and/or enter the contest for 2024.

Why SAK?

This program is a great way to give back to the dairy goat community and encourage new youth participation. The hands-on learning for the youth is unbeatable!

Donor quote from EZ Mark Dairy Goats: ” We got involved with the Share A Kid program to give back.”

Donor Rockin’ T Acres: “We had several people who helped us get started and taught us about dairy goats when my sisters and I started showing in 4-H. I felt like we could give back and do the same thing for youth who were interested in dairy goats.”

Recipient April Maier: “It was really fun showing my goat Pepsi!”

Recipient Aubrey Steen: “I have loved learning about dairy goats and how they are raised. The SAK program is a fantastic program.”

Recipient Harper Kock: “I would encourage other people to do the SAK Program. It is an amazing program, and I love that if you put in your best effort then you can get the best reward.”