Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City

Variety KC has been spreading their mission in the kc metro area. As a mom with a son on the spectrum, I am finding more inclusivity in public spaces because of variety kc. Their generous program also allowed my son access to a wagon which has come in handy & allowed us to safely be a part of day to day activities.

We just feel so lucky to have come across Variety KC. We've been working with a speech therapist for some time using Touch Chat as a means of communication for our son Miguel but were limited using the iPad at the center. It was then suggested that we apply with Variety KC for an AAC device and not within a few days we heard back that we were approved. Now Miguel has his very own device for school, home and the therapy sessions. We couldn't be more grateful!

We are forever grateful for the kindness and support of Variety KC. They welcomed our family into their community with open arms and provided funding for a sleep safe medical bed for our son. We don’t always get a lot of “wins” as parents of a medically complex kid and our connection with Variety KC is a huge win!

Variety KC has not only done so much for our family but also for our community! Variety KC has implemented tools for communication and accessibility in parks, zoos, etc. around our community! Our son was born with genetic differences that require a trach. This means that, for now, he is non-vocal. Variety KC granted us a communication device that our son now uses at school and at home! We are endlessly grateful for Variety KC and their team, especially Ali O'Grady, who is SO sweet and makes every event feel like it was dedicated just to us! Thank you!
- The Elizarraraz's

I have nothing but good things to say about Variety KC! They have blessed our family by providing equipment and therapy needs for our daughter. We couldn’t have done it without them. They are some of the nicest, kindest, caring people I have ever met. They are quick to respond and are wanting to help anyway they can! The people that work/volunteer with Variety KC seriously have a HUGE heart to see our kiddos succeed and be the best they can be.

VarietyKC has far exceeded any expectations we could have possibly had! They have provided a sports chair (x2 over the years!) for my son to play wheelchair basketball with his friends. He has gotten the chance to travel across the country to play basketball because of their generosity and passion for inclusion. They are always there when there is a need, figuring out a solution to ensure every child can be active, be social and belong!

My 9-year-old daughter was diagnosed with dyslexia and dyscalculia two years ago after profound academic struggles and we found a wonderful private school for her to attend last school year to help address her special learning needs. They recommended their summer program for her but it was definitely out of the range of affordability for me as a single mom. I was able to work with Variety KC to help my daughter be able to attend summer school and it feels like it changed her life! Her learning is on track as she starts back to school this Fall and she is much more confident and happier as she has experienced this ongoing support. Her being able to attend her schools summer program with the support of Variety KC was an absolute gift that definitely affected her learning trajectory in a very positive way. We could not be more grateful!

Our son was in need of a medical safe bed, we went through so many loops and denials with insurance and waivers and could not seem to get it covered and we desperately needed it! Variety KC was recommended to us through our coordinator. They were prompt to respond and showed concern for our needs and determined to help! We are very thankful for their donation!

We were so thrilled that Variety KC was able to help with our son’s SMOs! The application process was extremely easy. Staff members were very responsive to my questions via email. Since we received our grant we’ve had multiple email opportunities to get our son involved with the organization. Overall we couldn’t be happier with Variety KC!

We had a fabulous experience with Variety KC. They made the grant process simple and quick. Our daughter was able to get a harness within just a few weeks and it has allowed her to independently move once she is in it. This is not something she has been able to do in years. The staff member we worked with was kind-hearted and I got the sense that everyone there truly cares about helping children with disabilities. All the other special needs mothers I am friends with rave about Variety too. Highly recommend!

Variety KC is amazing non-profit organization that works to support special needs kids in the KC area. My daughter has a neurological condition and resulting developmental delays, requiring both specialized communication devices and intensive therapies. We've been fortunate enough to work with Variety KC two times- once to receive an ACC communication device in 2019 and once as a recipient of the MyTherapy scholarship fund in 2024 so that she may receive speech therapy year-round. I don't know what we would have done without the generous support of Variety KC and its donors to fill the gap! Variety KC is definitely a reputable organization that cares about kids and families in the KC area. Thanks so much!

Variety KC is absolutely great. I wasn’t even aware of the program initially, but as soon as we were able to come in contact with each other the process was easy and smooth. Upon going to one of their events and meeting the people who help run this profit I was even more impressed. Everyone was unbelievably nice and I am very appreciative that my child was able to receive his communication device which helps me as a parent in tending to his needs. Thank you Variety KC ! We will definitely be coming to more events!

My son is 3 years old and non verbal. Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City granted him with an iPad to use as a communication tool. It has been so useful for him to use and learn how to navigate. He is able to utilize certain communication apps to not only have a voice with his father and I, but also amongst his teachers and therapists at preschool. We are so thankful that opportunities like this exist and my son is benefiting greatly from it!

Every single person who we interacted with was just so kind, empathetic, and truly there to help. We were blown away by the entire process, and are so grateful for the support provided by this team. I highly recommend them and their services to any parent(s) with special needs children in the coverage area!

Variety KC is an amazing charity! Two of my children play wheelchair basketball and Variety KC provided sports chairs for them. Now, my son plays in college! We are incredibly grateful for Variety KC’s support of our children.

What a blessing you all are to our kids! This wonderful group helped my son with his first sports wheelchair, and it changed his world! Thank you so much, you all are such a phenomenal group of people.

This charity were superb to work with as they helped our 3 year old with CP get a peapod chair to support his sitting. Ali was fantastic with communication and updates and the chair is a godsend for Baron. Will recommend this charity to anyone

Variety KC provided my child with a tablet and the app needed to communicate. Thanks to them, my son is now learning to express himself and finally has a voice.

Variety KC provided my son with a wagon that has been a game changer for our family! He tires easily, but is too big for normal carts/strollers so it was becoming challenging to go places as a family. Now with our wagon, he can go comfortably and has his own space to relax when he’s overstimulated or worn out! Thanks variety KC! ❤️

I am the mom of a two year old with Down syndrome. I was referred to Variety KC by one of his therapists with the hopes of getting a communication device. After some confusion on my part, I reached out to Ali O’Grady and not only was she incredibly gracious but she was also extremely helpful and patient. My children and I attended an event hosted by Variety KC and when we arrived we were welcomed with open arms and treated with so much love and respect. If there are any families who have kiddos with special needs and they’re in need of any type of adaptive devices should 1000% reach out to Variety KC, it will be one of the best things you will ever do for your kiddo.

We have been blown away by the generosity and sincerity from VarietyKC! They have helped us secure an Ipad and a Wagon for my son who has multiple diagnoses impacting his vision, mobility and cognitive abilities. VarietyKC was quick to respond and get us the resources we needed which have been life changing for our son. They are incredible people who truly care about each person and situation and do their best to help out in any way they can. We are forever grateful for VarietyKC for their grants and support and would highly recommend them to anyone in need. Thank you VarietyKC!

Incredibly grateful for all Variety does in the KC area! It's a huge part of why we're so proud to live here.

I’ve had an amazing experience with Variety KC. I’ve witnessed endless positive impacts and opportunities it’s offered to close friends who have a son with special needs. Seeing some of these opportunities first hand has made me more aware of just how needed these efforts are! My family and I enjoy attending as many Variety KC events as we can!

We have been involved with Variety KC since 2020 when they gave our son an adaptive bike. We were immediately taken in by the Variety family and made to feel included. In addition to the adaptive equipment they provide to kids, they also pour hundreds of thousands of dollars into working with the metro area to build adaptive playgrounds, accessible restrooms, and inclusive sports fields. We feel lucky to live in a city so open to making public attractions more accessible and open to everyone, regardless of their abilities, and Variety KC plays a huge part in that! We have been so impressed with the organization that my wife and I were both motivated to get more involved and join the BOD.

Variety KC is instrumental in bringing inclusivity into our community.

Love what Variety does all around the city for inclusion! It’s so fun to see the variety signs at the zoo, my neighborhood park. Love all of the innovative things they think of!

Variety KC is an amazing organization supporting children with special needs in our community. I have had the pleasure of volunteering at some of the events and seeing the smiles on the kid's faces brings so much joy to those around.

Variety KC has a special place in our family’s hearts as they gifted our godson a bike a few years ago. That bike meant so much to him and his family! Since that special day we have been attending their yearly Variety show to witness the remarkable strides that are making to make Kansas City the most inclusive city yet! It warms our hearts to be a very small part in making Kansas City inclusive for our godson and children of all abilities! We love Variety KC’s mission, what they are doing in Kansas City, and we are blown away by how hard they work each year to make KC the most inclusive city ever!

Variety is an amazing organization that is going extremely valuable work for our communities!!

Incredible organization doing amazing things in our community. Very organized, transparent and successful in reaching their goals for community outreach, fundraising and commitment to helping every child in our community feel included, supported and active.

Variety KC has helped make our family feel seen, and like we belong. They are selfless advocates who put their energy, time, and resources into making this city (and world) a more inclusive and welcoming place for kids who are differently-abled. Being involved in a support system like Variety KC is literally life changing for families like mine!

We absolutely LOVE Variety KC! They provided our son with a bike in 2020 and since then we have been huge advocates for their inclusion revolution! Their dream of turning Kansas City into the most accessible city in the country is one to be inspired by and motivated to help further! Love what this charity does for our city and so proud to be a Variety KC family.

Variety KC provided our daughter with a bike that allows her to interact and engage with her peers. The application process was simple and the staff have been friendly and accommodating. We are so grateful!

My daughter has a rare genetic condition that comes with various mental and physical disabilities. Variety KC's adaptive bike giveaway was recommended to us by her Adaptive Physical Education Coach at school. These specialized bikes are quite expensive for an individual to obtain, so we were blown away when our daughter was selected to be gifted one of them from Variety KC on behalf of their generous donors. The staff members who we were in contact with were always friendly and accommodating. The experience could not have been more painless, and we feel very fortunate to have this kind of support available for our daughter.

Variety KC has made such a huge difference in our lives! We felt like a part of the Variety KC family from the start. My son is 10 years old and has ASD. He has always struggled with balance and mobility issues. We tried for years and even with training wheels he could not ride a 2 wheel bike like most other boys his age. He would try to run along side of other kids in the neighborhood as they were riding their bikes. Of course he couldn't keep up with them. I found out about Variety KC on the local news and thought I would just try and reach out to them for help. Variety KC really came through for us with an adaptive bicycle that was just right for my son and quickly too!! Variety KC is outstanding!!!

I love the work Variety KC is doing in the Kansas City area! They go over and above to make all children feel like rockstars in their communities! They offer hope and joy wherever they go and to whomever they touch! We need more organizations with true heart like Variety KC!

It warms my heart to see the joy which is shared through Variety Children’s Charity of Greater Kansas City. I’ve known Deb Wiebrecht for more than 25 years. There couldn’t be a better match for her kind heart and her passion for the beautiful children and their families which she not only serves, but that she also loves.

As a former Board Member for an early education center, I know the value of nonprofit organizations that serve children and their families. As an architect, I am so proud of the projects Variety has sponsored to provide accessibility and normalcy for children who otherwise would not enjoy their built environment. Under Deb’s caring leadership, Variety has pushed the intent of the ADA - Americans with Disabilities Act - beyond the written requirements which architects and clients are bound by and made the physical environment more inclusive. Deb and Variety have influenced me as an architect. My daughter has also been influenced in her career as a hospital administrative fellow in Chicago and servant leader in Variety The Children’s Charity of Illinois.

The Kansas City Metropolitan Area is lucky to have Variety Children’s Charity of Greater Kansas City and Deb Wiebrecht - making this a notably more inclusive place for us to live.

Cheers!

Variety KC was instrumental in helping my child get an adaptive tricycle. We appreciate how Variety KC provides opportunities for involvement in the community for our kids with disabilities and their families.

Variety KC is serving and educating our community on how to create a more equitable environments so everyone gets a chance to participate in our community. It’s amazing to see the innovation their achieving for children with diverse abilities to experience inclusive play.

Variety KC has been vital to our family, especially to our son Isaac. They have been a very valued resource for his basketball chair as well as activities in the community helping our kids experience activities, like an inclusive workout video and playgrounds, as well as activities with local professional sports teams. Deb and Variety KC are a huge asset to the KC community, advocating for each of our kids to be active, social and belong. Thanks, Variety KC!

Deb Weibrecht at Variety Club is AMAZING! This charity is so well loved in the community, and she is a big reason why. Her positive energy, get things done attitude and mostly her love of Children is evident in everything she does. Variety has helped so many local kids-- our community is better because they are here.

We love VARIETYKC! This organization is doing amazing things for our community!!

Our second son Beau loves all the things other 5 year old boys love. He loves his friends & teachers at school, Captain America, his older brother, Everett, going fast (in his wheelchair!!!), Forky from Toy Story & Chick fil A fried! Beau’s brain functions like that of any other typical 5 year old, but it’s his body that has failed him. Beau suffers from a movement disorder and epilepsy caused by the rare neuromuscular mutation called GNAO1. Beau cannot walk, talk, eat or play on his own. The heartbreaking part of his disability is that he knows he should be like all the other kids and his body will not allow him to.
As parents, this diagnosis absolutely shattered our world. I had to quit my job as a teacher. We had to move to an accessible home. Our lives now revolve around accessibility, finding help and navigating our way though the healthcare system.
I have found my passion for helping other families like mine who knew nothing about disabilities and accessibility until our own children were faced with the battles for accessibility. I lead a program at our local church who reaches out to the community to provide opportunities for families of children with disabilities to be a part of their community. I always tell my families about the amazing work of Variety KC. It is my absolute favorite charity in Kansas!
When Beau was one, he was gifted with a Go! Baby! car that allowed him to move independently for the very first time! The first time he and his brother “played” together was when we participated in an inclusive ice skating event organized by Variety. Beau’s 3rd birthday party was a sensory friendly movie at B&B Theaters where all his friends ate Variety Kids Packs because they partner with Variety KC. Later this year, Beau will be gifted with an accessible bike so that we can play outside as a family and Beau can ride his bike with his brother.
Variety KC does something that special needs families feel as though they’ve lost. They provide an opportunity for us to feel “typical” again, even if it’s only for an afternoon. Variety helps our family belong in our community! However, I truly think the most magical piece of Variety is Deb and her PASSION to help others. They do not come more positive, fun and uplifting than Deb. When we were gifted with our Go! Baby! she called me and said how excited she was to meet Beau and to help us in any way she could. Having a child with a disability is the hardest thing I will ever go through. The pain you feel almost daily is indescribable, but Variety is helping our family get through the hard days. They spread awareness for our rare kids, normalizing people with special needs so they are included in the community. They provide funding for families to receive what they need to make their world more accessible. I truly believe Kansas City is on their way to being the most accessible place on earth and I believe that is only because of Variety KC. It means so much to our family to have a place to belong!

Lydia has a genetic mutation called DYRK1A. Because of the mutation, she has an intellectual difference, autism, and is nonverbal. Lydia loves visiting different parts of our wonderful Kansas City area. We are thankful for the inclusive playgrounds that Variety KC have installed throughout the metro area and how Variety KC has advocated for restrooms to accommodate our special kiddos. The new inclusive playground at the airport is something we are looking forward to seeing and playing on. Thank you Variety KC for being an impactful part of our lives and the lives of many Kansas City area families and visitors!

Variety's mission is to help every child be active, social and belong. I've seen this time and time again for the past 12 years here in Kansas City. Individually, families benefit so much from equipment that insurance won't cover like van ramps so they can get their wheelchairs in & out, to iPads so non-verbal kids can communicate, to walkers, and adaptive bikes they can pedal with their hands when they don't have the use of their legs. There have been so many individuals impacted through Variety, but they go further than that. Variety has helped implement countless adaptive playgrounds around the city for able bodied kids to play next to kids with special needs. On top of that, The KC Zoo, Starlight, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, and Children's Mercy Park where Sporting KC plays have all implemented adaptive measures above and beyond ADA requirements because of Variety. From universal changing tables to sensory backpacks with noise-cancelling headphones, to sensory rooms, these venues have all become more inclusive for families because of Variety. Because of Variety, Kansas City has implemented an ordinance that all family restrooms have universal changing tables from here forward so that children over 40 pounds can be changed with dignity. The Parks department has also changed so that all future playgrounds will be inclusive, meaning no mulch that wheelchairs can't cross, and equipment that children of any abilities can play together on. They are true advocates for making Kansas City the most inclusive city in the world.

Love this Charity!! Can't wait for the airport addition!

I am a volunteer, and have only had awesome experiences with Variety! They do so much for families around the Kansas City area to make sure everyone feels included. I love helping at all the fun events they host around town, and seeing the joy they bring to families and kids.

Variety people have made such a positive difference in the lives of these kiddos
who DON'T have life easy in so many ways.Thank you for
brightening their lives!

Variety has been such a blessing to our family! We have 6 special needs children and variety has given several of them the opportunity to expand their horizons by trying new things we never would have dreamed they would be able to. They have gotten to try adaptive ice hockey and were able to play at our zoo playground after having to sit in a stroller or wheelchair all day, all because it is now adaptive to include ALL children. One of our sons was also just presented with his own custom sports wheelchair through VarietyKC. This is life changing in that he can now play the sport he loves, basketball, in a chair that fits to his body and helps him reach his full potential in this game. The love and compassion that Variety shows to our community is amazing and we feel so grateful to have gotten to know and be blessed by them.

Our youngest is 4 years old and nonverbal. Almost a year ago Oliver was given a communication device to help him communicate with his siblings, peers, and his parents. Because of variety and their generous donors we were given the gift of speech. Watching Oliver light up when he pushes a button and it says what he is thinking is the coolest. We love variety and all that they stand for. Inclusion for all kids.

I just want to take a moment to say how amazing Deb and Variety KC have been for the community. They go above and beyond for these children and bring so much positivity into the world!

I am truly thankful for you all at Variety KC.

I have been working with Variety KC for a few years now and am always amazed by how much this charity genuinely cares. They care about the entire community as well as putting time and effort into each individual, child, parent, family— they truly do make a difference.

Deb and the team at Variety KC are truly one of a kind. The opportunities they provide to children in need continue to inspire and impact the local community in countless ways. Thank you for empowering others and providing a space for them to be included. Keep up the great work!

Deb Wiebrecht, or Chief Inclusion Officer as I like to say, is an amazing person who is extremely passionate about Variety kids and their families. She is constantly striving to find innovative ways in which to support Variety kids and while sharing the message of inclusion. Variety KC offers tons of information, on their website and social media, with ways for kids and families to get involved such as health and safety alerts, news and events, birthday ideas, inclusive playgrounds, and much more! People can also donate on the website, request to volunteer, and families can apply online for adaptive equipment. What a wonderful organization that strives to make sure that every kid feels included and like they belong. If I could give them 10 stars, I would!

Variety has been an awesome organization for myself and children. I have 3 children that have benefited from them . My youngest has some speech problems and they blessed him with an iPad. Thank you.

Variety has changed the way Kansas City sees the disabled community. We now have baseball field and water parks that allow ANYONE to play, better access at the zoo, changing tables that accommodate older children, theater camps that include everyone no matter what their abilities, safe access to the beach in Olathe.... I could go on and on! Thank you Variety for all you have done and all you continue to do.

Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City has done great work throughout our city! Recently my daughter participated in a theater camp (Spinning Tree Theatre) that included teens with special needs. Variety paid for the full week! My daughter had the time of her life! And is already talking about next summer's camp!

The love, support and enthusiasm Executive Director,Deborah Wiebrecht, puts into this cause is amazing! The constant efforts of Variety to support kids with special needs is a blessing to Kansas City!

Incredible organization with unsurmountable passion! Loving seeing all the amazing things being accomplished by VarietyKC!!

Variety has been such an asset to our family I do many ways. When my daughter who is now 11 was 4, Variety helped us get some specialized leg braces to help her learn to walk. She was born with Spina Bifida and struggles with many things. Since then we have been part of the aridity family. They host fantastic social events for the kids. More importantly they help family fund mobility and communication needs. They also have build amazing accessible spaces around KC that she can access in her wheelchair. Variety has been a blessing to our family and community.

Variety Kc gave my son independence.
He is 12 years old and has cerebral palsy, he also has two brothers he wanted to ride bikes with really bad. Variety Kc gave him an adaptive bike and now they can barely keep up with him. They also have fun activities like adaptive ice skating. It's so wonderful as a patent to see my son be able to just be a kid and play without worrying about a way to make it happen for him. Thank you variety kc for everything you do for our kids!

Variety KC has so many fun events! My son happens to LOVE baseball and they put together a little camp for kids with special needs and the Royals. He gets so excited until he gets out there with all the ball players and then he is shy and shuts down. The volunteers are so good with him!

At this same camp I saw a machine that Variety KC constructed that helped kids who can't walk or can't walk well on their own being used and it warmed my heart! It left such a lasting impression. Those kids were so happy and so free! It was truly amazing!

Variety is one of the best Charities that I've ever been a part of. I've been lucky enough to be on both the giving and receiving end of Variety. I can guarantee to anybody that by donating to variety they are giving to an amazing charity with an amazing cause!

Variety is an amazing organization they heps children of all abilities be included in their community. They make others in our community aware of the importance that every child be social, be active and belong!

Variety helped our daughter with Cerebral Palsy be active in our community by funding a wheelchair lift for our van. This amazing gift allows our daughter to more easily go on outings with her siblings and be safe while doing so!


Variety is creating playgrounds on our community where children can be social with their peers and siblings. These playgrounds give our family a special place to go and play together!

We love Variety Children's Charity of Kansas City!!!

Variety KC is an amazing gift to Kansas City. It’s purpose and drive is solely to make kids included and involved. We are grateful to th everyday

Great organization whose benefits are all inclusive!

They gave us a manual ramp for the car for my son's wheelchair.

All I can say is. I wish the world had more people like Variety ❤ #Inclusion

I have never seen anyone work as hard as Deb to make events work so well and to put smiles on the faces of children.

To everyone out there i have to say this charity is so awsome. We have a son that had a stroke at a young age. They have made his day every day with all the play grounds that he can play on like he use too. Plus the benefits to all the the kids in the KC area with all the help that us parents need to give ours kids the fun that they need. Thank you!!!!

I help out every year with there charity fundraiser show. Such wonderful people here and live their mission

Variety is AMAZING! I have volunteered multiple times and I love that you get to see the impact they are having on kids and family in the KC area!! You don’t just donate, but you get to see where that money is going and how it’s helping others!!!

Variety Children's Charities is one of the BEST charities in KC! They collaborate with many individuals and organizations in the community to make the biggest impact on children and families. Variety moves quickly, uses their resources wisely, and is as innovative as they come. As a community physical therapist, I am so grateful to have Variety as a resource for mobility, sociability, and inclusion!

Variety Children's Charity of Kansas City is a truly impactful organization making a huge difference in our local community. Through Variety's efforts, hundreds of local children now have the equipment they need to participate more fully in the world around them. Variety has also been working tirelessly to provide more opportunities for these families to be able to enjoy "normal" social activities with their special needs children - like building inclusive playgrounds, launching new group sports activities, and hosting events that welcome children of all abilities. These efforts are so meaningful to so many families and the community is really rallying around Variety to ensure these efforts continue and expand in the years to come!

Variety - the Children's Charity KC is the heart of the community through its inclusive programs and all abilities playgrounds, making is easy for all children to reach their potential and enjoy life to the best of their ability

Deb and her team do amazing work for the youth with disability community in Kansas City! Proud to support this organization’s efforts.

Deb is amazing!! I have volunteered with this charity many times and it's also so positive and fun!

Great Charity helping local kids in need! Variety KC is a charity you can believe in.

Variety very graciously replaced the iPad and communicative application that was stolen from my nonverbal autistic daughter. I am so grateful. Now my daughter has an outlet to communicate with us again.

I am so honored to be on the board for Variety. The people that I have met through this board are all so kind, generous and love helping kids. Our Variety families are beyond amazing, and the most important superstars of all are our Variety kids. There is nothing better than watching "kids just be kids" through the kindness of all that Variety is about!

I am blessed to have gotten to participate in some of Variety's many charitable activities through serving on its Board. Deb and everyone else involved in the organization are some of the most true and kindhearted people in Kansas City. Variety's work has allowed hundreds of children to have opportunities that they otherwise may not have had. I have seen, first-hand, the way that Deb and the rest of the Variety team has transformed and improved the families of these lovable children. Thanks to Variety for making KC an even better place to live.

I have attended, as well as volunteered at Variety KC Events. The money raised goes for children with mobility needs in the Kansas City area. When you see the smile on the face of a child who is provided with a wheelchair, walker or trike, and is able to move and participate with others...your heart melts.

I have attended several of their events. I have seen first hand the excellent job they do.

I attended the City Slickers Ho-Down event at Drumm Farm last fall and it was such a well-organized and fun event for my kiddos, and all kiddos alike. I plan to attend this every year for my family. They support several charities and positive organizations that make life better for a lot of families.

What a fantastic charity! I'm so happy I've had the opportunity to serve on the Annual Hoedown Committee with Deb. She puts her heart and soul into serving the families in KC! Make sure to follow them on Facebook--I love seeing their updates on my newsfeed!

The world needs more people like Deb and organizations like Variety. We've been both supporters of Variety as well as recipients of Variety's generosity through a program that benefited our son who has Down syndrome. I don't know how Deb does it all, but she is an joy to be around and an inspiration. Variety is hands down one of the best organizations we've ever had the pleasure to be a part of.

I just love all the work Variety does and especially their Director, Deb! She makes sure there is continuous attention drawn to raising funds, bringing awareness to the public and helping these amazing kids with special needs. Where someone might see a disability Deb see's a miracle and fighting spirit. Deb works around the clock visiting businesses, educating the world and spreading the Variety message on social media. This wonderful woman continuously works till she has accomplished her goal for each of her kids. Each and every child she helps she truly loves and if you have every seen any pictures from Variety you can see the love each child has for Deb. I've stood by her side as a child's face lit up with so much love and excitement the moment they say Deb. In one of our planning sessions for a fundraiser, I've watched Deb tell a wonderful happy ending story about one of her kid-o's and every time she tells us one of these great story's she is brought to tears of joy. I imagine during her story she is also reflecting on the hurdles and effort it probably took to make that story a happy one but she never gives up. The love and compassion in her heart is constant. She inspires every volunteer she works with. She never gives up and she makes sure that each file that comes across her desk has their need met. These are not just files. These are beautiful soles that need a little help getting around &/or communicating with the world. Deb & every person at Variety makes dreams for these beautiful kids come true.

VarietyKC is a fantastic organization. I'm so lucky I was able to volunteer for the Drumm Farm Hoedown Charity Event that helped support the special needs children in Kansas City. I strongly recommend Variety as a wonderful non-profit organization.

My experience with Variety has been great. I've attended two of their hoedown events in the past couple years and have been blown away with their love for their kids. Everyone has gone the extra mile with putting on great fundraising events and putting the money to good use.

Variety Kansas City is a great charity because of the passion of its director, Deb. She loves the kids and will do anything to get them to equipment they need. She can't say no. She is so fantastic at her work that everyone (donors and recipients) has a meaningful experience when interacting with Variety.

Variety is an amazing organization . There work is absolutely remarkable to say the least . It is good to know and see we have such a great , passionate , caring organization that I am very lucky to b a part of . Thank you for the car . I love when my son rides in it , his face lights up which makes me happy . Thank you for this gift ..

An amazing organization that made it easy to get the help we needed for our daughter with special needs. Caring, compassionate, and a great resource to the community!

They were great and everyone was very nice and helpful. Thanks for my son's car.

Variety has been a wonderful experience to be a part of. I have been a volunteer this past year and helped support several events in Kansas City. The generosity of spirit and focus on "never turning a family away" is such an exceptional mission. I am so grateful to Variety and how they have been able to help some of the friends that I have referred. The gift of technology and mobility has vastly improved the lives of my friend's children and provided a perspective that their lives may not have had without Variety.

I have been a "behind the scenes" consultant for Variety of Kansas City for the past 4 years. During this time, I have seen Deb, the Board and her many volunteers do some amazing things for the children in this area. Costs of events and fundraisers are low which makes for higher margins and more money available to directly fund equipment for children who just want to have normal kid experiences. It's been a pleasure serving Variety and working with Deborah Wiebrecht.

I've volunteered for and been a part of several organization and Variety the Children's Charity of Kansas City has proven time and time again to be the most genuine, sincere and engaging non-profit ever. What resonates with me most is that I get to meet, talk to and interact with the kids and families that are receiving the funds that I am helping raise. And it all stays in my community.

Over the past two years I have had the pleasure of becoming involved with Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The passion they have to support children who need special equipment to be able to be included in everyday activities is endless. The equipment they provide to families is quite expensive and typically not covered by insurance, so the impact their gifts have can be life changing for these families.

Variety Children's Charity is a remarkable experience and I am so proud to be able to attend many events that in turn help support the special needs children in Kansas City. I highly recommend Variety has a VERY great non-profit organization.

This past year I have had the privilege of supporting Variety of Greater Kansas City as a volunteer and have been blown away by the heart of the mission, the organization of the volunteers and the ability to help our communities' families. I am proud to be associated with Variety and am honored to help our kids be active, be social and belong.

I have been volunteering for Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City for about 3 months, and I love everything they stand for! The good this group does for children with communication, mobility, and inclusion barriers is incomparable to any other. By giving these children the help and devices they need to be a "regular" kid is life changing. The events are always well organized and the community participation is wonderful. Keep up the good work Variety KC!

I love volunteering for Variety Children's Charity! They kids are wonderful and the money they make goes to kids who really need it! I get so much out of volunteering for such a great organization!

I've volunteered for Variety for the past three years and the joy I get from volunteering is unlike any other. The kids are adorable and giving back to them a feelings you will never forget. Deborah Wiebrecht who is the executive director is the sweetest, most genuine person who puts herself before others. The money they raise goes to the best kids in Kansas City and all the money donated you can see it go to use!

As a volunteer in any organization, you'd think that you'd be the one touching others lives, but with Variety, it's the children and their families that are touching my life and changing me for the better. Variety is such a special organization that is changing the lives of everyone who is blessed to be a part of it!

I want to share a unique perspective of how Variety of GKC works, and how a single person can make big changes in our community. I happened to be in the room when Deborah Wiebrecht (Variety's Exec Director) took a phone call. It was the mother of a child with special needs. She had seen a product that would make shopping easier for her, her child and family...a grocery cart with a built in seat for larger children or adults.
Deb got off the phone, quickly made another call to a major Variety sponsor (HyVee) - and HyVee aoon ordered these specialized carts for all their area stores.
What an amazing display of success!
1. Variety families obviously feel engaged enough to call for help and to give help
2. Variety staff listens - and acts quickly
3. Variety supporters and sponsors truly understands the needs and are eager to help
4. The results benefit the entire community. There is nothing territorial about Variety - they help one on one and they help families they will never meet.

My daughter has cerebral palsy. She has two younger siblings, and we are a very active and busy family. Twice now my daughter has been the recipient of mobility equipment (a standing frame and an adapted racing chair (for running and biking). She is able to participate in triathlons, road races, bike rides, walks, runs, and more right along with us as a family. Variety is awesome!

Variety of KC goes above and beyond expections!! My son has Down syndrome and it's nice to get together and meet other families going through the same things. It is a wonderful support system for the community!!

I cannot express in words what Variety of Greater Kansas City has done for my son, Jackson. Jackson has Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) which is non-diagnosable according to the insurance coding book. This all translates into we receive no insurance coverage for any of his treatments or therapy equipment. SPD does not allow for great gross or fine motor coordination, hence, riding a normal 2 wheel bike is near impossible. Jackson was wanting a three wheel bike that looked "cool" so that he too could be "normal" and ride with the neighborhood kids. No charity has ever been willing to help us due to his lack of being able to be diagnosed and that the bike was not needed for therapy purposes. That all changed when I spoke to Deb with Variety. She explained that Variety is there to help with or without diagnosis and that being a typical kid was just as important as therapy equipment. A month later, Jackson was gifted his AWESOME, new three wheel bike from Variety. He now happily rides with all the neighborhood kids and has actually become the envy of them with his bike. Again, there are no works to express what a difference this has made in his life and what Variety means to us. Absolutely a blessing and God given gift!

A charity making a difference and spreading friendly smiles! I love it.

Jackson, age 12, was unable to ride bikes with his brother because he couldn't balance, steer, stop and pedal all at the same time. Variety provided him with a 4 wheel pedal bike and he is now off to the races. While he still has challenges in understanding the concept of braking, it has a bar on it that allows us to walk/run behind him and limit him on his speed and assist him in the stopping process. He now takes 1 1/2 mile bike rides, while one of us runs along side him. He has also informed us that next year, he is going to participate in a kids triathlon with his brother (which we will adapt accordingly). Without Variety, he would not be able to be as mobile and be as participatory in everyday simple things like riding a bike. Thanks Variety for all you do!

The Variety Club Children's Charity has been a huge help to my daughter and our family. Due to my daughter's special needs, growing body, and short endurance for walking and standing for extended periods of time, her toddler stroller was no longer appropriate. The specialized stroller that we needed to help her access the community was very costly and unobtainable for us, but becoming increasingly necessary. The Variety Children's Charity helped us to get a specialized "big kid" stroller which has allowed my daughter to particpiate in all kinds of family and community activities, that would otherwise be very difficult. Thanks again to all of the staff, volunteers, and community members that participate in this organization that is dedicated to helping children of all abilities.

~Katie and Grace

My son has special needs and they helped me get him the tricycle that he wanted. Now he can play with the neighbor kids!! I have been involved with Varitety alittle over 2 years . They are great!!! What a great organization to be involved with!!! They far-exceed my expetations!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have been involved in Variety for almost three years and could not imagine a more impactful or meaningful volunteer experience. Growing up as an able-bodied and "normal" child, I had all the opportunities for activity and mobility. There are many children in our community who do not get to experience the joys of mobility and independence, and Variety does all it can to change that, one child at a time. Mobility is such an intangible thing...you can't feel it like hunger or quantify it in dollars to fix. Giving the freedom of of mobility for the child for the first time is a life changing experience and allows the to live a more active and healthy life, and in many cases, leads to a much higher quality of life. For me, the highest satisfaction I receive from my volunteer efforts are the smiles on a child's face the first time they ride their new adaptive bicycle or stand-up in a new wheelchair. Further, the letters from the parents saying how much happier their special needs child is now that they can ride their bicycle with neighborhood children...or parents no longer have the back-breaking task of lifting the wheelchair into the van for a trip...are truly heartwarming!

Impactful. Dynamic. Innovative. These three words come to mind when thinking about Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City! What a great organization to be involved with! The energetic volunteers, amazing cause and great events (both fundraisers and ones that directly involve beneficiaries) all make for a phenomenal non-profit organization. I have had the opportunity to work with Variety the past 4 years as an intern and a volunteer and have truly seen the difference that they make in the lives of Kansas City kids! Not only do the kids benefit, but also those who are involved in any way! Great cause & great people to get involved with.

I have a special needs daughter. (muscular dystrophy, epilepsy, brain tumors, osteoporosis, and spina bifida occulta) When I was in need of a lift for her motor scooter because I can't lift it and our van is not big enough, I looked online and found Variety! Our lives have been changed forever. Sometimes having special needs children you feel helpless, but after meeting Deb I have a whole new energy. Not only did they jump right on getting us the lift we needed for the van, Deb has shown us a love that no other has shown. Variety has provided us with many opportunities to be "normal" and go do "normal" things. Anytime I see a child or family struggling with a special needs child, I tell them all about Variety. There is no way I could ever repay Variety for the freedom they have given, except to share my story.

The passion and energy of this organization is absolutely amazing!! I leave every event, happy hour and planning session feeling inspired and like I am making a difference. The best part is being able to interact with the kids at different events and getting to know them and their families. I am extremely proud to be a member of this organization and help children living with daily challenges live their lives to their fullest potential.

I have been a board member of Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City for 8+ years. In that time, I have meet some amazing children and their families. It is an incredibly rewarding experience to present a mobility bike / trike to a special needs child and see their face light up as they realize they can ride along with their able-bodied siblings and friends. In addition to mobility bikes, Variety has helped Kansas City children and their families with wheelchairs, strollers, transportation needs, wheelchair ramps, braces, lift systems, handicapped accessible playground equipment and more. Variety truly helps improve the quality of life for special needs children and their families.

In addition to the children and families I have meet through Variety, I have enjoyed getting to know the Variety board members who are from all walks of life. We all have a passion in common to help children in the Kansas City area experience life as comfortably, proudly and as happily as possible!!! Thanks to our wonderful Executive Director (Deb), our mission is made possible.

Variety is so passionate about kids with special needs and ensuring that they have the same opportunities as others. Their kid-centered events, their connection with our community's kids, and the true value and spirit that they bring those they serve is immeasurable. Thanks for being a great community leader!

Variety Children's Charity Of Greater Kansas City has been instrumental in helping The Miracle League of Olathe get their Miracle League Baseball field built. They have put in countless hours helping with fundraising and giving ideas to make to make this dream happen. They are great people and know how to get things done. We are very grateful! Eric Hughes

Variety delivers! As a member of the Shawnee Mission Board of Education, I've seen firsthand the wonderful impact this charity has on kids. Variety delivered dozens of wheelchairs to our Instructional Support Center.....our teachers were genuinely moved that a group remembered to help their students. And speaking of students, not only does this nonprofit directly affect children, it also provides volunteer opportunities for students. It was especially gratifying to listen to a Shawnee Mission student explain on a local newscast about the blessing she received in joining fellow high schoolers earn a special bike for a younger Shawnee Mission student.
Variety delivers in many ways....and it chooses to allow others to take the credit thereby enhancing the experience for all. The executive director Deb Wiebrecht keenly understands that leaders of organizations allow others to shine in order to sustain a successful program. In case you were wondering, she is the incredible, shining light guiding the noble efforts to help our kids. Thank you, Deb.

With more than 20 years in association and non-profit management, I don't think I've ever seen an operation run as well as the Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City. Deborah, the group's Executive Director, has an excitement about the group that's contagious to everyone she comes in contact with. Her passion about those helped by the group and her "out of the box" fundraising ideas help to keep her volunteers engaged.

I have helped plan events for Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City for the past 6 years. I am truly amazed by all of their efforts to help in any way that they can to touch so many lives. Seeing the children’s faces light up when they receive a bike just brings tears to my eyes. What a great organization and I am so proud to do my part to help these events happen each year.

You never stop learning! Three years ago my first experience with Variety and the fantastic people devoting their time to help others, I came to understand how a little helping and caring can go so far. Seeing the smiles on faces of children helped by Variety helps us as individuals realize how fortunate we are then we can understand how a little caring can go so far.

I’ve had the awesome opportunity of working with Variety for the last 2 years and my experiences have been nothing but truly rewarding. As a volunteer, supporter, and events committee member, I have seen first-hand what this amazing charity does for our community and the amazing kids that it includes. Variety truly cares about the families they support. I get excited and more motivated each and every time I attend an event, knowing that I am part of this inspirational organization. Every face you see connected to Variety are truly the best people you will ever get to know. LOVE LOVE LOVE Variety!!!

As a Variety Board Member I get to see first hand, the hard work and dedication of this organization to the coolest clients in town--our kids! Variety truly understands what it means to give from the heart to those who need it most. My favorite thing about Variety is that regardless of activity, they make it an inclusive environment for EVERYONE!!

I have been on the board of directors for Variety Children's Charity for the past few years, and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences. I am thankful to be involved in one of the best organizations in KC. My husband and his friends were training for a triathlon and wanted to raise money for charity, so they selected Variety as the recipient. Through the money they raised they were able to purchase an adaptive bike for a child. When we presented it to him, the smile on his face was so awesome. Now, my kids are doing fundraising activities this summer with their friends to raise money for Variety. Amazing, Amazing organization.

My son Sam is 11 years old and has Spinal Muscular Atrophy. He has been in a wheelchair since he was about 5. About 3 years ago, it became time to look into a new wheelchair for Sam, one with a lot more functionality than the basic one that he had at the time. It was important to us that we find ways to promote his independence as best we could, and getting the right wheelchair with all of the right functions was the key to that. Once all the approvals and ordering and all were done, we were left trying to figure out how we were going to pay for the out-of-pocket expense that we would be responsible for when buying this particular wheelchair. As anyone who has every purchased a power wheelchair knows, they are quite expensive, and even with great insurance, having a 10% or 20% co-insurance due really adds up. I was told that Variety Children's Charity provided some resources and funding to help with the purchase of mobility equipment for kids, and was put into contact with Deb. Their group of young volunteers managed to raise the funds to help us pay for the out-of-pocket expense that we owed. Sam loved his new wheelchair and we got the peace of mind of not having to worry about the cost aspect of it all. Deb and Variety planned a big event when they did the official presentation of the check. It was a baseball themed function, since Sam is a big baseball fan. We met at a local high school baseball field, and were met by many of the Variety team and some local team mascots who played baseball with Sam and his brothers. There were news people there to interview us and to video the event for the news, which made Sam feel really special! It was a very cool thing. Since then, we have been invited to many Variety fundraising events where we have met a lot of special people. This is a great organization, and we are proud to consider ourselves part of the Variety family!

My daughter was born with Spinal Bifida and is wheelchair bound. I suddenly received a call from my school nurse letting me know that Shawnee Mission CCC Club at Shawnee Mission Northwest high school had raised some money. I then talked with Deborah from Variety KC and they decided that they wanted to help the high school find a student in the district to help and they picked my daughter.

They then notified me of this fantastic news and we got to choose a hand cycle to purchase for my daughter so she can ride bikes with her family and friends. The school raised half of the funds and the charity came up with the rest.

We then had an event to show my daughter her new bicycle during a recess at her school in front of the entire 1st grade class. Deborah and Variety made the event so much fun for everyone, they even brought books and stuffed Owls and Rabbits for each child at the event as well. Was inspirational and my daughter and our family will forever be grateful to Shawnee Mission CCC Club and Variety KC for their hard work and kind hearts.

Great organization recommend then to anyone who have a child with special needs Variety cares!!

Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City has an impact for so many families in the Kansas City area. Our daughter Catie as well as our family have been blessed by Variety Children's Charity with the donation of an adaptive tricycle and orthotics. Catie has four siblings so mobility is vital in her world. The adaptive tricycle allowed Catie to ride beside her brothers and sisters. The orthotics have given Catie the strength to begin to learn to run. Variety Children's Charity gave Catie the gift of being "just one of the kids.

Additionally, Variety Children's Charity has benefited our family by allowing us to meet a number of incredible giving individuals and families. Variety kids have given our family the gift of perspective. Variety kids cherish each day and value each moment. Their smiles and laughter are infectious to the soul.

Thank you Variety Children's Charity of Greater Kansas City for blessing Catie with the gift of movement and blessing our family with your impact in the lives of kids with special abilities.

Variety children are incredible young men and women who light up a room with their personalities and spirit. I enjoy getting to spend time with them and the Variety programs.