Variety Scimeca Wiffle Ball Classic

Variety Equestrian Therapy Movie

Variety Kansas City Celebrates!

Tent 8 enjoyed another year serving the children of the Kansas City area.  If we were to put a title on our activities this year, it would most likely be called “Think Big, Think Outside the Batter’s Box.” 

Being in the unique position of straddling the states of both Kansas and Missouri, this year Variety Kansas City was proud to announce groundbreaking ceremonies for two adaptive playing fields.  Straight from the headlines of local media, “Royals & Royals Charities Partner with Variety Kansas City & Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation to Build Fields on Both Sides of the State Line.”

The Independence Ability Field at McCoy Park in Independence, Missouri and Olathe Miracle League Field in Olathe, Kansas, offer specialized equipment ensuring all children can participate regardless of limitations created by disabilities.

These parks have been little more than a dream for many years now, until Variety stepped in, involving the Kansas Royals and Royals Charities. Now, because of the proceeds from the 2012 Major League Baseball Gatorade All-Star Workout Day held at Kauffman Stadium in July 2012, the fields have come to fruition.

That’s the greatest benefits of being involved with Variety.  Tents are able to make one-on-one impact on an individual child’s or family’s life, and can also participate or spearhead larger scale projects that will benefit their community for decades to come.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9e2vDc_UA24&feature=share&list=UUjEAPy1Ic5p7kuV_MWj_2sw

Variety Baseball Ground Breaking

Variety Family Spotlight: Elise's First Ride

Elise Ballard is a girl on the go, so her family wanted to get her a tricycle she could call her own. Working with their case manger Elise's mom, Kelly, contacted Variety to see what all was involved with getting an adaptive trike. Through submitting a little paperwork and getting quotes from the bike manufacturer, they were able to secure Elise's trike. 

When Elise was presented her trike, her first ride was memorable for her family. She immediately found and rang the bell. As she started peddling, she began laughing and smiling. Her excitement only grew as she felt the breeze on her face as she sped down the small hill in front of their house. 

Before receiving her trike, Elise would run beside her younger sister, Abby, as she peddled around the neighborhood. Now, the girls can play together. Because of her trike, Elise has made huge improvements on her flexibly, speed, and strength. It has also allowed the Ballards to ride together for a fun family activity. They love that it is easier to get outside and be apart of the community they live in. 

When Elise isn't busy riding with her sister and friends, she attends all day kindergarden where her favorite subjects are music and reading. She also enjoys dressing up, playing games, and playing with her dolls and train set. Variety the Children's Charity of Kansas City is so honored we could assist Elise and her family with their trike. There's nothing better than helping kids gain mobility and confidence! 

View Elise's first ride!

Happy New Year’s From Variety!

Variety the Children’s Charity of Kansas City wishes all our friends and family a joyous new year. With the new year comes many goals for resolutions and hopeful thoughts. To help keep you motivated, we would like to share the story of 2013 Variety Show performer Nate Muehe. 

Nate is an amazing kid who never allowed obstacles to get in the way of his passion. He was born with Amniotic Band Syndrome which ended his left arm just below his elbow. Despite not having a left forearm or hand, Nate has found a love for baseball and has excelled as a pitcher. The 13-year-old from Olathe, KS pitched a perfect game back in 2011 garnering him much attention for his 60 mph pitches. Since then, he has gone on to throw out the first pitch for The Kansas City Royals, and you might have recognized him from a 2012 Summer Olympic Nike commercial. Through Nate’s hard work, dedication, and optimism he is truly an inspiration for anyone going after their goals and reaching their dreams.  

Volunteer Spotlight

On December 3^rd, Variety The Children’s Charity of Kansas City was proud to be apart of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Variety visited Harmony Elementary School in Overland Park, Kansas to present an adaptive bicycle to Harry Pettes. Harry was born with Cerebral Palsy Spastic Diplegia and never had the opportunity to ride a bike. So, his school rallied around him and adopted the Catie Cares program to raise funds. As a result of selling pizza, candy and water, the amazing kids at Harmony Elementary raised over $900 all going towards Harry's first bike.

The Catie Cares program was envisioned by Variety child, Catie Flourney. After receiving her adaptive bicycle, Catie was inspired to give back to other kids with mobility needs. She encourages all kids to get involved with their families, friends, and classmates to help others. If you are interested in the Catie Cares program, make sure to check it out and get involved!