Variety Star Playground Program

Variety Star Playground Program is sponsored by Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa. Variety provides funding for the development of inclusive playgrounds across Iowa, aiming to create accessible play spaces for children of all abilities.

Grant Program - Variety Iowa - the Children's Charity Supporting Iowa’s Children This year, Variety is proud to award grants to 104 nonprofits across Iowa , helping fund meaningful projects that improve the lives of children in communities statewide. From grassroots organizations to statewide initiatives, these grants support programs that create brighter futures for Iowa’s kids.

Each year, children’s nonprofits from across the state of Iowa have the opportunity to apply for grants to support program funding related to Variety’s mission of caring for children. Variety – the Children’s Charity provides funding to nonprofit organizations that deliver care, treatment, activities, and shelter to children who are at-risk, underprivileged, critically ill, and living with special needs.

We primarily fund brick and mortar projects, equipment, and other tangible items that directly impact children. Administrative needs (i.e., staffing, salaries, office space, etc.) and other intangibles will not be considered for funding. Variety grants are open once a year in mid-March.

Grant applicants are reviewed for financial stability, and each organization is interviewed by a member of Variety’s board. This ensures a great understanding of the specific request and potential impact of investments into applicant programs.

Grant categories include: Essential Health & Wellness formerly Acute & Convalescent Nonprofits that provide critical care including: neonatal, pediatrics, and mental health services, or provide child essentials and family support.

Critical health care and/or medical equipment Child and family support and essentials formerly Preventative and Youth At Risk Nonprofits that serve children who lack social or educational opportunities, have experienced physical or chemical abuse, struggle with behavior problems, or are in need of emergency shelter.

Job readiness and/or personal development Accessible support programs Access, Independence, and Inclusion formerly Camperships, Variety at Work, and Underprivileged Nonprofits that provide services, spaces, or programs to children who are critically ill, living with special needs, or otherwise lack access due to poverty.

Inclusive experiences & adaptive and/or inclusive spaces Camps (equipment, supplies for activities, and/or other tangible items) 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.