The Magic Behind the Houston Rodeo

A behind the scenes look at the volunteers that help put together the world's biggest Rodeo.

By: Grace Rodriguez

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has been a part of some of my favorite memories and an integral part of my childhood. Every year I look forward to putting on my boots to go to the fairgrounds.  Growing up, the Houston Rodeo was my Disney World, always maintaining a magical element that you can’t find anywhere else. It took me a very long time to realize what that special element was. Often forgotten but nonetheless important, the Rodeo volunteers play a crucial role in executing the exhilarating atmosphere that defined so much of my childhood.  

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is host to the biggest Rodeo in the world. Not to mention the carnival, which includes a wide variety of rides and games for people of all ages. And you can’t forget the world-class food and top-notch barbecue. Although, none of it is possible without the volunteers. With almost 35,000 volunteers and 110 committees, these volunteers help do everything from horse show equipment to recycling. I had the honor to speak with my aunt, Kim Perez who has been a proud volunteer for twenty-three years. 

In 1999 Kim decided to join the Houston Rodeo’s volunteer team. Over the years she’d seen advertisements on TV and even had friends who participated. Though, Kim’s start to the process was a bit unconventional as she received a letter from the Go Tejano committee which read that she had been recommended to be part of their team. To this day Kim isn’t sure who recommended her, but she says she is, “eternally grateful that she got to be part of such an amazing team”. 

 In her first year with the Go Tejano committee, she helped with a variety of events. She spent lots of her time at the ‘Go Tejano’ Diner helping with serving and prepping food. In addition, she had the chance to assist with the Go Tejano’s Fashion Show which included fun activities like helping book models for the show and mitigate the actual clothing worn during the shows. Kim worked with the Go Tejano committee for seven years, but eventually realized she wanted to move up in the totem pole. This led her to work with various committees until she landed on the Rodeo Merchandise committee where she helps sell different products during shows. Her choice to move on paid off as she received the title of assistant captain in 2019 and later a captain in 2021.  

Many often bat an eye to those who volunteer with the Rodeo as one must pay both committee and membership dues. Though, Kim says working as a volunteer is her way of giving back to her city. She describes how even though she pays to volunteer, the payoff is worth it. Perez says, “It makes you feel good, seeing all the smiles, it’s hard not to love being at the Rodeo.” Not to mention, the environment is nothing less than infectious, as she loves to indulge in events like the horse shows, along with nods to Western heritage.   

When I asked her the best part about the entire experience, she mentioned that she “loves getting the chance to meet new people”. Kim went on to say that even though she is an introvert, “the Rodeo brings me out of my shell”. She added that she never imagined being a volunteer would help her realize she could be a real leader. With opportunities like being a captain, Kim says, “This position has been a huge positive for my self-esteem and reminded me that I have a voice and can make a real impact”.  

This Rodeo season is special for Kim. Due to her dedication to the Rodeo, she will be awarded the title of a Lifetime Volunteer which will grant her a Gold badge. This allows her special privileges to the rodeo grounds, cook-off, and much more. And while these perks are especially sweet, Kim says the most rewarding part of this season is that this year, the volunteer work is a family affair. Her son Ryan, along with her sisters, Chantelle and Cassandra, are all working on the Rodeo Merchandise committee together.  

The Houston Rodeo has and always will hold a special place in my heart. It’s thanks to volunteers like Kim who help create the Rodeo magic that I know and love.