Three weeks. 72 kids and teens. One sold-out show. This summer, Variety Theatre brought kids with and without disabilities together at COCA for an unforgettable production of The Addams Family Young@Part, and the impact reached far beyond the stage. Through Variety’s inclusive Performing Arts program, participants spent three weeks learning songs, choreography, lines and cues …
A Summer on Stage: Looking Back at Variety Theatre Read More »
For Emmy, occupational therapy became more than a place to work on skills. It became a place where she could learn more about herself, build confidence and prepare for whatever came next. Emmy began occupational therapy (OT) following her autism diagnosis. At the time, her mom, Morgan, wasn’t sure what to expect. Everything felt new …
When Charles and Paul first arrived at Variety Adventure Camp as children, they were looking for a place where they could simply be themselves. Today, they’re helping create that same experience for the next generation of Variety Kids. For the twin brothers, camp wasn’t always a given. Born prematurely and later diagnosed with autism, and …
From Campers to Counselors: Meet Charles and Paul Read More »
For families raising a child with a disability, access to the right resources can make all the difference; opening doors to greater independence, confidence, and connection. Across the Greater St. Louis region, Variety St. Louis provides adaptive equipment, therapy services, inclusive recreation opportunities, and other critical support for children and teens with disabilities in 30 …
Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis is proud to announce the appointment of four new members to its Board of Directors: Erin Fleming Dunlap, Erica B. Slater, Eloise Schlafly, and John Waterhouse. Each brings a unique blend of professional expertise, community leadership, and passion for empowering local children and teens with disabilities. Erin Fleming …
Variety Welcomes Four New Board of Directors Members Read More »
Variety Welcomes Lauren! Variety is excited to welcome Lauren Wash to our team as our new Grants Administrator! In this role, she will support Variety’s development and programs teams in securing critical funding that helps provide equipment, therapy, recreation, and performing arts opportunities for local children with disabilities. Lauren brings a background rooted in service, …
Every child deserves the freedom to explore their world, participate in their community, and experience a childhood without barriers. During National Mobility Awareness Month, we recognize the importance of mobility and accessible equipment in helping children with disabilities live more independently and confidently every day. Established in 2011 by the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association …
The St. Louis community gathered for an inspiring and unforgettable evening at the 2026 Variety Believe Gala, where this year’s theme, Stories of PossAbility, brought to life the powerful journeys of local children and teens with disabilities and the transformative impact of Variety’s programs. Held at The Ritz-Carlton, the evening immersed guests in a whimsical, …
17-year-old Annie is always on the move. Her days begin early: checking the weather, reviewing her schedule, and making sure she knows exactly what’s ahead. She thrives on routine, tackling each morning with a plan and purpose. While she needs support with some daily tasks, Annie is constantly working toward greater independence, setting goals and …
For 12-year-old Aurea, last summer marked a milestone. Living as an autistic pre-teen, new environments and unfamiliar experiences can often bring uncertainty. This was Aurea’s very first summer attending Variety Adventure Camp. For her family, saying “yes” to camp wasn’t something they took lightly. “First of all, this was one of the first camps that …
At first glance, it might look like an ordinary moment: an 11-year-old boy getting himself a drink from the refrigerator. But for Brandy, it was something much bigger. For the first time at 11 years old, Duncan got up, grabbed a cup, grabbed the juice from the fridge, took the cap off without help, poured …
Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis is thrilled to welcome Jonelle Masciotti as our new Director of Development. With nearly two decades of experience advancing mission-driven fundraising for national nonprofits, Jonelle brings both strategic expertise and a deep passion for creating meaningful impact for children and families. In her role, Jonelle will guide the …
There are days at Variety where we see our mission in action and that remind us why our work is so important – and this year’s Bikes for Kids was no exception. On Saturday, November 21, Variety provided over 30 adaptive bikes and over 200 standard bikes, designed to meet the unique needs of kids …
Generosity, Possibility, and Impact: Bikes for Kids 2025 Read More »
We’re thrilled to share some amazing news — Variety’s Adventure Camp is now officially accredited by the American Camp Association® (ACA)! This national accreditation recognizes what our families, staff, and campers already know: Adventure Camp is a place where safety, inclusivity, and joy come together to create truly unforgettable experiences for kids and teens with …
At just five years old, Julian’s determination shines as bright as his smile. Living with cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder, he faces challenges daily, but thanks to support from Variety St. Louis and our generous community partners, Julian is making incredible progress toward independence, confidence and joy. Before receiving therapy and equipment through Variety, …
Imo’s Pizza and Variety St. Louis teamed up once again to empower local kids and teens with special needs and to serve up a little extra happiness along the way. On Wednesday, October 15, more than 90 Imo’s locations participated in Imo’s for Kids Day, donating a portion of proceeds to support Variety’s life-changing programs. …
Imo’s for Kids Day Brings Joy (and Pizza!) to Variety Families Read More »
When the curtain rose on Seussical Jr., Abby was ready. With her colorful feathers shimmering under the spotlight, she stepped into the role of Mazie LaBird, strutting with confidence that had been years in the making. “I always get a little nervous before performing,” she shares, “but after the show I always feel good because …
Variety Welcomes Leah! We are delighted to welcome Leah Folk to the Variety family as our new Senior Coordinator for Communications! In this role, Leah will be instrumental in sharing the stories of Variety children and families and ensuring these important messages of strength, determination and limitless possibilities are heard in and beyond the St. …
Shining on the Stage, Showcasing Her Abilities How Variety Helped Olive Discover Her Passion and Build Confidence Along the Way For Olive, the stage is where she feels most at home. Through Variety’s Performing Arts Camp, she has discovered her passion for theatre—and the confidence that comes with it. “She has no fear at all,” …
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 …
