Variety Welcomes Megan! We’re excited to welcome Megan Myers to the Variety family as our new Health Services Coordinator! In this role, Megan will work closely with our Medical Equipment and Therapy Programs teams, providing vital support to local children with disabilities and their families. Originally from Southern Illinois, Megan graduated from Southern Illinois University …
At Variety St. Louis, we believe every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and empowered — and that sometimes, the simplest things we usually take for granted can make the biggest difference. Recently, we had the honor of providing a life-changing piece of equipment for three-year-old Colton. His mother, Hannah, graciously reached out to share …
Believing in Brighter Tomorrows, Together. On May 16, the St. Louis community came together for an unforgettable evening of magic, generosity, and heart at the 2025 Variety Believe Gala. The theme, Believe: The Magic of Empowerment, perfectly captured the spirit of the night — a celebration of possibility, inclusivity, and the life-changing impact that happens …
Welcome Abby | Development Coordinator Variety is excited to welcome Abby Stebner to the team as our new Development Coordinator! In this role, Abby will be instrumental in advancing our mission — helping to raise crucial funds, connect with generous donors, and support exciting new initiatives alongside our dedicated team. Abby comes to Variety from …
We are delighted to introduce Kayla, who has recently joined the Variety St. Louis team as our Human Resources Coordinator. In this vital role, Kayla will support both our administrative and finance teams, providing guidance and leadership across HR initiatives as we continue to grow and empower local children and teens with disabilities. Before stepping …
Meet Everett—first grader, dinosaur enthusiast, and all-around bundle of joy! His contagious laughter and bubbly personality make him a friend to all, especially at school, where students and staff alike greet him with big smiles and high-fives. But what makes Everett truly extraordinary is his journey of resilience and strength. At just 15 weeks in …
When you see 10-year-old Faith on stage, in the spelling bee, or on the court, it is hard to believe she was ever shy. But this dynamic Variety Kid has come a long way, transforming into a confident, compassionate, and unstoppable force. Faith’s journey began with a life-altering moment when her mother, Melanie, learned at …
Hope in Every Step Three-year-old Danielle Rey adores all things pink and lights up with her love for Taylor Swift. Yet behind her vibrant spirit lies a challenging medical journey that has already seen her endure two six-month hospital stays. Danielle Rey has Mowat-Wilson Syndrome, Hirschsprung’s Disease, congenital heart issues, and more. She requires round-the-clock …
Transforming Uncertainty into Independence For 90 years, Variety St. Louis has impacted thousands of local children with special needs, empowering them with the tools to unlock their full potential. With access to vital medical equipment, therapies, and socialization opportunities, Variety Kids’ possibilities are reimagined. After spending her childhood with the Variety family, 21-year-old Veronica is …
Variety Alum Veronica: Transforming Uncertainty into Independence Read More »
Imo’s Pizza and Variety St. Louis teamed up once again to empower local kids and teens with special needs. On Wednesday, September 18, over 96 Imo’s locations participated in Imo’s for Kids Day with 10% of purchases donated to benefit Variety programs. At Imo’s iconic Hampon location, Variety Kid Jo Jo (6) and Variety Teen …
Resilient Remi When Sarah and Blake welcomed their son, Remington, they expected a smooth, healthy journey ahead. Despite an uncomplicated pregnancy, everything changed when Remi began having seizures shortly after birth, resulting in a 45-day stay in the NICU. As Remi grew, it became clear that while his body faced obstacles due to cerebral palsy, …
Easton’s story beautifully illustrates the transformative impact of Variety’s My Voice® program. Watch his journey below and see how this vital assistive technology empowers Easton to share his unique voice with the world. Empowering Variety Kids Through Communication Imagine being unable to communicate verbally – how would this impact your daily life? Many children with …
Highlights from Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. 51 talented kids and teens took the stage from August 9 to 11 to perform Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr., captivating audiences and championing a message of inclusion. This dedicated cast, featuring kids with and without disabilities, spent three weeks together diving into an underwater adventure. Along the way, they …
Fintastic Fun: Highlights from Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. Read More »
Unleashing Hudson’s Full Potential Nine-year-old Hudson showcases the transformative impact that takes place when children with special needs gain access to the right programs and opportunities. Born with a brain injury that led to a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, Hudson has faced significant challenges from the very start. Spending 28 days in the NICU and …
Easton’s Speech-tacular Success Communication tools are critical for local children and teens with special needs, empowering them with the resources to connect with the world around them. Children who have difficulty communicating verbally significantly benefit from speech therapy and Augmented Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. However, despite their importance, many families face barriers in accessing these …
Inside Look at Finding Nemo Jr. Learn about the upcoming performance of Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. and partnership with the Center of Creative Arts (COCA) from the Director and Producers! Robin Diehl Robin Diehl serves as Variety’s Programs Director, ensuring the operational success of all Variety programs. She has served Variety Kids and their families …
Paxton’s Path to Independence At five years old, Paxton’s smile serves as his superpower, radiating joy despite facing intense challenges starting at the very beginning of his life. Born weighing just 5 lbs. 3 oz at full term, Paxton was immediately admitted into the NICU. Just three weeks later, he battled sepsis and was hospitalized …
Spotlight on Variety Alum Gracie Since 1933, Variety provides innovative programs that break barriers, providing unique opportunities for local kids and teens to unleash their full potential and enjoy their childhood. When they transition into adulthood, Variety Kids utilize the many skills gained through Variety to pursue their passions. Now 21 years old, Variety Alum …
In a world where communication is often taken for granted, Variety gives local kids and teens the tools to fully express themselves. Seven-year-old Clarkson faces verbal communication barriers, but with speech therapy and the aid of a communication device, he now shares thoughts and feelings proudly. Clarkson’s whole world changed when his speech therapist recommended …
