MOUNTAIN GROVE, Mo. — A local high school senior is bringing rodeo excitement to town this fall while raising awareness and support for youth in foster care.
Taylor Hafner is organizing Rodeo for a Reason on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Tri-County Fairgrounds, in Mountain Grove, starting at 6 p.m. The fairgrounds are located at 60 S Highway E, Mountain Grove, MO 65711. The event is part of her senior project, but it also carries a personal mission. Hafner’s younger brother was once in the foster care system and is now adopted into their family. Because of that experience, she wanted to create an event that gives back to children in local foster care programs.
The rodeo will feature a full lineup of events, including open barrels, bulls, broncs, and team roping in both open and 8-point categories. Buckles and added money will be awarded in each event. Riders planning to enter bulls or broncs must call in by September 29 to be eligible.
Admission to the rodeo is $5, and donations of diapers and baby wipes will be accepted at the gate. Western attire is required for participants, including a button-up shirt and hat or helmet. All riders must sign a liability form; minors must have a parent or guardian present to sign at the event or bring a signed, notarized form with them.
Hafner expressed her gratitude to the sponsors already supporting the event and noted that sponsorship opportunities remain available. Businesses or individuals contributing $250 or more will receive a custom banner displayed in the arena during the rodeo.
Contact Rodeo for a Reason for sponsorship information or event details through their social media page at facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578740230219.
The community is invited to come out, enjoy a night of rodeo action, and support a cause that Hafner says is close to her heart.
