Polk County adaptive rodeo brings joy, inspires bigger mission to help families

From barrel racing and lassoing to a petting zoo and even a special-needs goat, a rodeo in Polk County Saturday proved that everyone deserves a chance to experience the fun.The Hollie Brewer Adaptive Rodeo brought more than 70 children and adults with developmental disabilities together for a day filled with excitement, inclusion and community support.Polk County adaptive rodeoCo-founders Jena Brewer and Sarah Hollie launched the Hollie Brewer Adaptive Rodeo about four years ago after watching their daughters, Maddie and Macy, struggle to join local livestock shows alongside their older sisters. "They were trying to compete with their older sisters in local cow shows. And there wasn't a class for them," Brewer explained. "That's where it started. It was inclusion."The annual gathering pairs every participant with a volunteer buddy who assists them throughout the day. Community donations and sponsorships keep the event completely free for all families.Polk County special needsBrewer cre