How We Help

Variety is a children's charity--simply helping kids no matter the need--by providing essential services and support to children with unique and special needs.  

 The manner by which Variety accomplishes this mission is equally important as the mission itself.  Basic values that are fundamental to the success of Variety’s programs include: 

1. Children.  Their needs are the focus of everything that Variety endeavors.  Their needs explicitly direct a myriad of programs and projects.
2. Donors and Supporters.  These parties provide the visionary foundation and monetary support for Variety’s work.  They enable its programs and services, and they guarantee its future as a successful champion for children in need.
3. Volunteers.    Variety’s numerous  and committed volunteers provide considerable talent and the dedication necessary to carry out Variety’s mission.  
4. Staff.   Variety’s small but mighty staff of two is the proverbial glue that holds the organization together.  They are a source of strength in planning, organizing, and developing Variety’s programs and services.

Variety does not receive state or federal funding and relies on the support of corporations, foundations, and private donations to sustain its mission.  Great care is taken to ensure 88% of funds directly support Variety core programs.  

Quite simply, Variety is small enough to listen but big enough to make a difference—swiftly and soundly, with dignity and compassion. 

---

Variety core programs provide:   

(click on the program for a complete program description)

•  state-of-the-art, life-like electronic prosthetic hands for children with upper limb differences through the Variety Myoelectric Center
• nourishment and support through weekend meals for elementary students in partnership with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office through Variety Feeds Kids
• brand new bicycles, locks, and helmets to children in need as well as adaptive cycles for children with special needs throughout the year via Variety Bikes for Kids
• programming to provide elementary students with tools for coping with difficult emotions, positive ways to address feelings, healthy and unhealthy relationships, and helpful communication skills through the Variety Being You Being Strong Initiative
• therapeutic horseback riding lessons to children with physical and/or cognitive challenges through the Variety 4-H Horseback Riding Program
• essentials such as clothing, bedding, winter apparel, toys and juvenile products to children across Southeastern Michigan through Variety Kids in Distressed Situations
• fresh fruit and vegetables to families in need via the Variety Produce Rescue Mission
• support of recreational and educational experiences through Variety Community Outreach Initiatives

---

DONATE