lasso learning
San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo rounds up $12 million in youth education
The San Antonio stock show and rodeo has announced its annual economic impact.
To tourists, a rodeo is niche entertainment; To Texans, it's a learning opportunity. In addition to the skills practiced by the participants — animal handling, teamwork, strategy — the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo offers education in the classroom, too, through financial contributions.
On May 14, the event released a statement on its annual economic impact, counting a total of $288 million to the city of San Antonio and Bexar County. Among those funds is $12 million for youth education programs across Texas. They will be distributed to more than 20,000 young people via "educational scholarships, vocational training, and agricultural projects."
A graphic on the rodeo's website tallies more than $255 million awarded through education grants, endowments, rodeo contests, and more. Students in every county of Texas have been affected.
"We believe in the potential of Texas youth, and this donation on behalf of our over 6,000 volunteers, sponsors, and partners is a reflection of our dedication to their success," said executive director and CEO Cody Davenport in the release. "By supporting education, skill development, and the agricultural industry, we are investing in the future leaders of our state and ensuring they have the tools they need to thrive."
The statement does not provide a breakdown of impact categories — presumably contributing factors include food, lodging, and transportation. With quite the annual music lineup, a large portion of that may be earned by artists. According to the website, more than 1.5 million people attend annually. Keeping all that running are 6,000 volunteers, a variety of vendors, and a salaried staff.
According to tax filings shared by ProPublica, Davenport received the highest compensation at $513,487. The next highest compensated staff member is listed at $205,493. Executive compensation made up 3.8 percent of expenses, and "other salaries and wages" made up 7.7 percent. It spent $39,877,076 on program services out of $50,413,465 in revenue — about 79 percent.
More information about the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo is available at sarodeo.com.
The Holiday Night Markets are a lot like farmers markets in the same location.Photo courtesy of Pearl
The Giving Machines are like vending machines that drop gift cards into a collection bin to show contributions.Photo courtesy of Pearl