I-CASH Agricultural Injury Prevention Youth Grant

The I-CASH Agricultural Youth Grants empower Iowa youth to promote farm safety and health within their communities. Funded by the University of Iowa, these grants support creative projects, such as distributing safety gear, creating educational materials, and hosting contests. Annually, an Outstanding Youth Grant Award recognizes exceptional initiatives, fostering engagement in vital safety topics. The program not only aids in injury prevention but also encourages youth leadership and community involvement in agricultural safety efforts.

Make a difference in your farm community!
Farming is a dangerous occupation, and Iowa has lots of farms. This grant program was developed to encourage youth to take an active role in preventing injuries and deaths on farms by raising awareness about safety and health issues with farmers and other youth in their community. The projects should be planned and conducted by youth, with adults serving as mentors and advisors. Rural hazards come in many forms and there are many topics that can be addressed. To select a topic, start by considering the type of farming in your community, any injuries or deaths that may have happened in the past, as well as the obvious hazards such as tractors and livestock. Don’t forget about health issues such as hearing loss, sun exposure, ergonomics, and proper hydration.
The message of farm safety and health can be delivered in a variety of ways. We encourage creative projects! Here are some examples you may consider:
Distribute SMV (slow moving vehicle) signs at the local implement dealership, using the opportunity to talk with farmers about roadway safety Make a poster about hearing protection for the county fair and hand out ear plugs and brochures Speak with farmers while they wait in line to drop off grain at the local co-op – pass out a fact sheet about respiratory health and give them dust masks Produce a YouTube video about safely sorting cattle, using the funds to purchase props for demonstrations, special makeup, or editing software Hold a local essay or poster contest about ATV safety and give ATV helmets away to the winners
One project will be selected for the Outstanding Youth Grant Award which will be presented at the 2025 Midwest Regional Agricultural Safety and Health (MRASH) meeting usually held in mid-November. A cash award plus funding for travel and expenses to attend the meeting will be provided.
Project Description
Farming is a dangerous occupation, and Iowa has lots of farms. This grant program was developed to encourage youth to take an active role in preventing injuries and deaths on farms by raising awareness about safety and health issues with farmers and other youth in their community. The projects should be planned and conducted by youth, with adults serving as mentors and advisors.
Rural hazards come in many forms and there are many topics that can be addressed. To select a topic, start by considering the type of farming in your community, any injuries or deaths that may have happened in the past, as well as the obvious hazards such as tractors and livestock. Don’t forget about health issues such as hearing loss, sun exposure, ergonomics, and proper hydration.

Eligibility

Grants are only available for youth groups/organizations in Iowa.All projects must be run through an educational, agricultural, youth or similar organization.

Ineligibility

Grants funds will not be paid directly to individuals.