Variety – The Children’s Charity is a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to raising funds and distributing grants throughout British Columbia to inspire hope, enrich lives, and build a better future for children who have special needs. Since 1965, Variety has raised more than $170 million, all of which stays in the province of BC.
Major Capital Projects - Variety funds the construction of child development centres and equipment for neonatal intensive care units in major hospitals throughout BC. Over the years, Variety has spearheaded capital campaigns to build BC Children’s Hospital, Canuck Place, Down Syndrome Research Foundation and Resource Centre, BC Family Hearing Resource Centre and the Variety C.H.I.L.D. Gastroenterology and Liver Research Laboratory at BC Children’s Hospital. These facilities help children receive the care they require and enable them to lead healthier, more productive, and happier lives.
Heart Fund Grants – Every year, Variety provides funding to over 1,300 individual families for specialized equipment, speech and language therapy, medication, and emergency out-of-town travel and accommodation expenses.
Sunshine Coaches – Over 550 specially equipped vans have been placed on the roads of BC. These coaches help transport children in comfort and safety to places of education, recreation, and therapy.
Gold Hearts – Now in its 21st year, the Gold Heart program has raised over $100 million worldwide. Each year, the Gold Heart Day pin features a new design. The 2012 Gold Heart Pin features R2D2 and C3PO of Star Wars. The collectible pins are available by calling the Variety office and at various retail locations around the province.
Major Annual Fund Raisers – Show of Hearts Telethon, Gold Heart Day, BC Bowls for Kids, Variety Children’s Radiothons, Kids Coin Drive for Variety, Variety Auction and Vintage Market presented by Buy-Low Foods and Boat for Hope.
Special Events – With more than 200 fundraisers and special events happening every year, Variety works closely with community-based fundraising groups and over 4,000 dedicated volunteers in communities around the province.
Variety International – There are 43 Variety organizations in 13 countries that have raised over $1.5 billion in the past 80 years.
