News - Variety Iowa - the Children's Charity

Variety supports thousands of children across Iowa with the help of dedicated volunteers and numerous fundraising events throughout the year. With so much happening, every effort is focused on making a greater impact for children in need.

2025 News Releases

Jul 23, 2025 Phyllis & Gene Baker Wheels to Ride Fund
The Phyllis & Gene Baker Wheels to Ride Fund, established in 2024 during our 29th annual Polo on the Green event, honors two incredible champions for children. Phyllis and Gene believed every child should experience the joy of riding a bike - no matter their circumstances. This year, during our 30th and final Polo on the Green event, we invite you to help us continue their legacy and turn dreams into rides by donating to the Phyllis & Gene Baker Wheels to Ride Fund.
Jun 29, 2025 Round up at your local Fareway to support Variety – the Children’s Charity
Fareway Stores, Inc. is partnering with Variety - the Children’s Charity to conduct the ninth annual Round Up at the register from June 30 – July 19 at all 143 store locations. Customers will have the opportunity to round up to the next dollar or provide an additional donation on their grocery bill to help fund Variety’s mission. Dollars raised through the Round Up will provide mobility equipment to children living with special needs, as well as fund and deliver effective programs and grants to care for children who are underprivileged, at-risk, critically ill, or living with special needs.
Mar 25, 2025 Hy-Vee Round Up Campaign Raises More than $220,000 for Variety – the Children’s Charity
Hy-Vee customers generously supported Variety – the Children’s Charity by rounding up their total grocery bill in February to support children who are critically ill, at-risk, underprivileged, or living with special needs. This month-long initiative raised an impressive $220,385.
Feb 01, 2025 Hy-Vee Partners with Variety - the Children's Charity for Annual Round Up Campaign to Support Kids
Customers can make a difference by rounding up their purchases to the next dollar, now through Feb. 28, to support children in need across the Midwest.

2024 News Releases

Dec 23, 2024 Variety Star Playground at the Iowa State Fair
Variety believes every child deserves the thrill, excitement, and joy of outdoor play. Playgrounds are not just spaces to have fun - they inspire learning, build friendships, and promote healthy activity. Most importantly, they break down barriers, creating inclusive experiences where children of all abilities can play side by side.
Dec 06, 2024 Family Receives Compassion Fund Help
Variety raises funds each year in December to refill the Compassion Fund at local hospitals. Tune in to 92.5 KJJY in central Iowa and 104.5 KDAT in eastern Iowa during Variety's Two Days of Compassion on December 10 & 11 and donate now to help children like Gunnar!
Nov 25, 2024 Jeff Lorenzen to Serve as Honorary Chair for Variety Telethon
Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa is thrilled to announce that Jeff Lorenzen will serve as the honorary chair of the 51st annual Variety Telethon Fundraising Campaign.
Oct 25, 2024 Variety Van for Crittenton Center
Crittenton Center in Sioux City, IA received their new Variety Van! This van will be used to transport the youth they help to and from school, appointments, and therapeutic outings.
Oct 16, 2024 Ashley Okland Variety Star Playground at the Clive Greenbelt
The City of Clive and Variety – the Children’s Charity are proud to announce a partnership to install a new all-inclusive Ashley Okland Variety Star Playground in Clive. Variety’s newest playground will be located at Greenbelt Landing, a new park on the site of the Clive Aquatic Center.
Oct 01, 2024 Variety Iowa Leadership Announcement
Sheri McMichael, Executive Director of Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa, has retired after 24 years of dedicated service to the organization and the community.

Variety Iowa News

Variety — the Children’s Charity of Iowa is dedicated to improving the lives of children who are at risk, underprivileged, critically ill, or living with special needs.