Bacon Buddies Program Recognized for Community Leadership
April 3, 2025
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) was honored with a Leadership in Community Award from Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig at the 13th Annual Iowa Ag Leaders Dinner. This recognition celebrates the Bacon Buddies® program, a groundbreaking initiative created by IPPA in partnership with Special Olympics Iowa.
Bacon Buddies embodies Iowa pig farmers’ commitment to the We Care principles, particularly their dedication to supporting local communities. The program offers a one-of-a-kind experience where Special Olympics athletes from across Iowa team up with FFA and 4-H members to learn about animal agriculture, show pigs at the Iowa State Fair, and engage with judges in front of a live audience.
This transformative experience benefits everyone involved. Special Olympics athletes develop new skills, build confidence, and form lasting friendships, while their mentors gain valuable insight into working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities—an opportunity that fosters compassion, inclusion, and leadership.
“The Bacon Buddies event at the Iowa State Fair always brings a smile to my face, and it’s one we look forward to every year,” said IPPA Past President Matt Gent, a pig farmer from Wellman. “Caring for our communities is a core value of Iowa pig farmers, and this annual event is a powerful way to strengthen those connections.”
Since its debut at the 2019 Iowa State Fair, Bacon Buddies has continued to expand. In 2023, IPPA introduced “Bucks for Bacon Buddies”, a grant initiative offering up to $500 to county pork producers for hosting local events. As a result, 31 county fairs held Bacon Buddies shows in 2024.
Secretary Naig praised IPPA’s leadership and commitment, stating: “Every year, hundreds of Iowans from every corner of the state gather for the Ag Leaders Dinner to recognize outstanding contributions made by businesses, organizations, and individuals,” said Secretary Naig. “This year’s awardees, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Nationwide Agribusiness, Pheasants Forever, and the Iowa Association for Agricultural Advancement, have all made significant positive impacts to the ongoing success of Iowa agriculture and our rural communities. These awardees play an integral role in developing young leaders and ensuring that Iowa remains an agricultural productivity powerhouse that drives our economy forward.”
With its continued success, Bacon Buddies is not just a program—it’s a movement that brings joy, inclusion, and community spirit to the heart of Iowa agriculture.
You can view the Leadership in Community video for Bacon Buddies at this link.