There are pressing needs of children with disabilities and their families in our community. Brian Roy, CEO of Variety St. Louis, joins us to shed light on the amazing work the organization does. For over 90 years, Variety St. Louis has been a beacon of hope, providing essential medical equipment, therapy services, and inclusive opportunities for children with disabilities. Brian shares how the organization has evolved from its early days as a social club into a vital service provider that identifies and fills the gaps in support for families.Variety St. Louis offers various programs, from equipping children with necessary medical devices to providing therapy services that many families struggle to access. Brian discusses the challenges faced by families in affording these vital services and how Variety St. Louis steps in to bridge the gap. With heartfelt stories from families, he illustrates the profound impact of these resources on children’s lives, helping them achieve independence and confidence. He emphasizes the significance of inclusive opportunities that not only help children with disabilities but also enrich the community as a whole.We touch on the critical aspect of funding and how Variety St. Louis operates primarily through private contributions. Brian shares insights on how the fundraising landscape has evolved and the importance of community support. He candidly discusses the challenges of securing funds while emphasizing the impact that even small donations can have on a child’s life. The ultimate message: together, we can redefine possibilities and create a more inclusive world for all children.[00:00] Why Variety Matters[00:30] Show Welcome and Sponsor[01:27] Thought for the Day[02:19] Meet Brian Roy[03:00] Variety History and Shift[04:51] Who They Serve[05:51] Equipment and Therapy Help[08:10] Arts and Camp Programs[09:25] Adventure Camp Explained[12:19] Ages and Transition to 21[14:17] Service Area and Vision[15:37] Inclusive Theater Spotlight[18:30] Current Productions Update[20:18] Impact Stories from Families[25:03] Break and Sponsor Message[26:17] Dred Scott Stamp Petition[27:23] Variety Funding Overview[28:15] Gala Evolution and Headliners[31:06] Private Funding and Impact Data[35:14] Budget and Scaling the Mission[37:58] How Families Find Variety[41:03] Program Limits and Eligibility[44:17] Donation Impact Breakdown[49:46] Karaoke Banter and Wrap Up[51:21] Final Credits and Sign OffTakeaways:

• There’s a real need in our community for support systems for children with disabilities and their families.
• Variety St. Louis is stepping up by providing essential medical equipment and therapy services to make life easier for these kids.
• Our programs not only offer tools but also priceless experiences, like summer camps and performing arts, to help kids thrive socially.
• Funding for these programs mainly comes from private donations, which is crucial since there are no federal programs covering these services.

• Variety Kids | Greater St. Louis Region | Supporting Kids with Disabilities
• Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis | Facebook
• Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis | Instagram
• Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis (@VarietySTL) / X
• Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis | YouTube
• Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis | LinkedIn

This is Season 9! For more episodes, go to stlintune.com#varietystl #childrenwithdisabilities #specialneedssupport #assistivetechnologyforchildren #adaptiveequipmentfordisabilities #specialneedscamps