The Variety Telethon has evolved over the years from a telethon that lasted an entire weekend to the Television Specials of today.
Throughout its history, the Variety Telethon has attracted some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, including Sammy Davis, Jr., Liza Minnelli, Kenny Rogers, and Ray Charles. Although the stars have rotated over the years, the primary mission of the telethon has remained constant: to serve children with various disabilities in the Greater St. Louis region.