Created in 1990, Iowa’s Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (I-CASH) was funded by the Iowa Legislature. The mission of I-CASH is to enhance the health and safety of Iowa’s agricultural community by establishing and coordinating prevention and education programs.
Each year I-CASH designates funds for community grants to youth aimed at the prevention of farm-related injury.
- $500 grants are available to decrease the risk of illness and injury due to farm hazard exposure.
- Applications will be reviewed by members of the I-CASH youth committee (see page 3 for application). Criteria for selection will be based on objectives, use of funds, collaboration, and proposed activities.
- One project will be selected for the top project award which will be presented at the 2016 Midwest Regional Agricultural Safety and Health (MRASH) meeting usually held in mid-November. Funding will be available for travel and expenses to attend the meeting. A cash award will also be given to the top project.
Youth will plan and conduct a farm safety and/or health educational program, campaign, or social media event. Suggested activities may include: planning and carrying out a farm safety/health event; distributing safety/health related resources; or developing materials to promote farm safety and health. More ideas are listed within the Project Description. Emphasis will be given for youth involvement and the program description when scoring projects.
Grantees are encouraged to work with the I-CASH affiliates for expertise and resources. They include: The University of Iowa, Iowa State University, Iowa Department of Public Health, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, AgriSafe Network, Farm Safety For Just Kids, AgriWellness, Easter Seals, Iowa Farm Safety Council, National Education Center for Agricultural Safety, Proteus, and other safety and health organizations.
DEADLINES
Applications are due March 9, 2016 with a final Project Evaluation due September 15, 2016. Approved applications will be announced by March 25, 2016. Contact Brandi Janssen, I-CASH Director, at 319-335-4190 or brandi-janssen@uiowa.edu with questions or for more information.
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 conducted by youth, with adults serving as mentors and advisers.
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. 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
- Conduct a program about driving safely on rural roads
- 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
- Conduct a seat belt check-up using the funds to reward those wearing their seat belt. At a later event give demonstrations about rural road safety using the funds to purchase demonstration items.
- Hold a local essay or poster contest about ATV safety and give away ATV helmets to the winners
There are LOTS of ways to deliver safety and health messages. Be creative. We’re looking for innovative ideas.
The grant evaluation form is available below or on the last page of the application packet. It is included for your reference, not for you to fill out. Use the criteria listed when writing the application as this form will be used to rank potential projects.
NOTE: I-CASH funds cannot be used to pay for salaries or for the purchase of tee-shirts.
Download this Microsoft Word version of the 2016 Application and complete and mail/e-mail it to:
Already completed your project? Download this Microsoft Word 2016 Project Evaluation form, fill it out and mail/e-mail it to:
One top award project will be selected for youth and advisors to attend the November 15-16, 2016 MRASH conference. Funding will be provided for travel and lodging.
All information submitted by the applicant will be treated by the university as a public record unless the applicant requests that the information be treated as confidential in accordance with the public record laws of the State of Iowa at the time of this application.