Variety, The Children's Charity, is near and dear to our hearts.  Variety's Vision is to insure that every child with disabilities is provided with enabling equipment, assistive technology devices and the opportunity to participate in social, educational, artistic, and recreational activities enjoyed by other children.

Variety's mission and vision is furthered by serving children with disabilities without discrimination in Armstrong, Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland Counties.

Variety continues its vision by actively sponsoring events and programs in a manner that assures children with disabilities of their welcomed involvement by providing social activities (i.e., Camp Variety for Kids, Children's Christmas party, etc.) for the children and their families.

 History:
Variety the Children's Charity of Pittsburgh is the oldest children's charity in southwestern Pennsylvania. Variety marked its beginning on a cold Christmas Eve in 1928 when a one-month old baby girl was discovered abandoned upon a seat in the Sheridan Theatre in East Liberty. Hearing of the big heart of those in show business, the infant's broken-hearted mother prayed someone would care for her child. With eight other little ones to provide for, her mother believed baby Catherine's best chance would depend on the kindness of others.

The manager of the Sheridan Theatre and ten other businessmen "adopted" Catherine and formed the "Variety Club" named for the many areas of show business represented by its members. They continued their support long after a permanent home was found for Catherine. The little girl inspired the community as well, capturing the hearts of all those hearing her story. Before long, more clothes, food, money and toys were collected than any one child would ever need. The Variety Club proposed to use the surplus to help other disadvantaged children.

The idea caught on and soon people, including those from all across the entertainment community, wanted to help this worthwhile cause. As interest grew, the Variety Club was divided into "tents" for "circus tents" as they were known back then in keeping with the organization's history in show business.

Today Variety International Children's Charity has more than 10,000 members and 54 chapters in 14 countries. More than 77 years after it began, the love inspired by one child -- Catherine Variety Sheridan -- continues to benefit children around the world, as Variety the Children's Charity helps children of all abilities to see their potential and to reach their goals and dreams.