Our History
Formed in the Coachella Valley in 1987, Variety – The Children’s Charity of the Desert is dedicated to promoting the health, mobility, independence and social inclusion of special needs and disadvantaged children throughout the Coachella Valley. By providing life-enriching assistance to Coachella Valley children, Variety hopes to help children experience all the joys of childhood while growing to become confident, independent and free to access all that the world has to offer. Variety – the Children’s Charity of the Desert, is a chapter of Variety – the Children’s Charity, an international charity with more than 40 chapters around the world. Formed in 1928 in the Sheridan
Our Vision
Our vision is that all children, regardless of ability or income, are able to actively participate in their communities and experience all the joys that come with being a kid. We believe that all children should have a limitless future.
Adaptive Bikes
Standard Bikes
Books for Students
Vans in the Community
What Drives Us
Our Mission
Variety - the Children’s Charity of the Desert, is dedicated to promoting the health, mobility, independence and social inclusion of special needs and disadvantaged children throughout the Coachella Valley.
Testimonial
Ezekiel C.
Ezekiel will be 3 years old in July. “We received a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome and it was confirmed a few days after birth. He was born with low muscle tone, hypotonia and failed his hearing first 3 tests. He started therapy twice a week and worked really hard to meet his milestones. He currently has met most of his milestones. We use play to practice his interventions. He is funny, curious, charismatic, loveable, he loves to dance, give high fives and kisses. This bike will help with his self-confidence and independence. He mimics his sister Esmeralda and wants to do the things she does. This will bike will allow Ezekiel to continue to work on strengthening his coordination and muscle strength. Ezekiel has an infectious smile and I can’t wait to see him ride his bike. Thank you.” – Yadira, Ezekiel’s mom
Our Board & Staff
Romina Gil de Matos
Secretary
Cathe Collins
Board Members
Ted Hane
Immediate Past President
Delyn Meyers
Board Members
Rosie Casals
Board Member
Kara Robinson
Board Member
Young Variety
Young Variety is a group of young professionals (21+) who connect and network with others who are also committed to enriching the lives of children. Young Variety is focused around social awareness of the needs of Coachella Valley children through mixers, events, and opportunities to serve children. We have a great time, meet new people, but most importantly, contribute something meaningful to children.
Young Variety Board Officers
Kim Funkey, President
Joshua Dugal, Vice President
Jessica Canales, Secretary
Margarita Williams, Treasurer
To learn more about becoming a part of Young Variety email variety@varietyofthedesert.org
