Variety KC x
The Miraculous
Miss Maddie

What is the cost of a good night’s sleep? For some families raising children with a disability, a good night’s sleep comes with a price tag upwards of $10,000. For these families, specialized safety and medical beds aren’t just a luxury—they’re essential tools that can significantly improve their quality of life. For that reason, Variety KC and Maddie’s Mission have teamed up to provide this life-changing support to Kansas City families so that caregivers can rest well at night, knowing their children have a safe place to sleep.

Grand Opening:

Spring 2022

Location:

Wyandotte County, Kansas

Grand Opening:

Spring 2023

Location:

Northland Soccer Complex

While visiting a Variety Child on one of the floors I was surprised after leaving the lobby the feeling of Whimsy gave way. The pictures lining the walls were dated and disconnected… random pictures of cows…. florals and the ones with kids that had disabilities- the need was hidden. (Invisible)

I immediately thought of what a positive change and feel the halls of CM would have if people saw real families and kids like theirs grace the halls. Switch the dated images out for our beautiful inclusive photos by international award-winning photographer- Colleen Christi.

Her pictures of various Variety kids of all colors, abilities, sizes celebrating each child’s uniqueness, the joy they have in life and things they love. An expression of true Inclusion. If these pictures were updated then walking the halls of CMH would represent the kids they serve-and they serve the largest minority population we have- people with disabilities. So many Variety kids visit CMH for Doctors’ appointments, therapy, fitting for equipment and often long medical stays. Shouldn’t the walls represent this population of CHM patients- Wouldn’t it be wonderful if families and kids were welcomed by images of kids that looked like them- familiar and champion achievement.

Variety KC helps a Variety of kids with a Variety of special needs with a Variety of equipment and opportunities towards inclusion and those kids need to be seen and celebrated. So the story goes-here is another shining example that sharing your thoughts and dreams with others helps dreams come true. Dr. Ann Modrcin who is a tremendous physician at CMH and also a Variety BOD member loved the idea of updating the old images with bright fresh faces of kids that champion their special needs and differences…That gives kids true Super Powers!!

Dr. Ann shared this dream with the new and AMAZING VP of Inclusion at CMH- Michele Wimmes. And Michelle jumped on the idea to kick off the Joy in the workplace campaign. Thank you to the CMH team and to all who believe in positive change towards inclusion for all. The more we see this largest minority population in our world the more it will become the new normal and people of all abilities will be welcomed and celebrated.

Change is coming!!!!! Stay Tuned!!

The single largest minority population is the 26% of Americans with a disability. Unfortunately, this population is oftentimes invisible because the world simply isn’t built to allow them to participate. With these changes, EVERYONE can participate and enjoy watching Sporting KC play – live!

Here are the changes that make this possible:

• Variety KC’s Sensory Room provides guests a sanctuary if the excitement and environment get overwhelming. Young guests can quiet down with a room filled with sensory toys and gadgets, while parents can still watch the game on a TV until the child is ready to re-enter the game.
• Variety KC Sensory Backpacks can be checked out for FREE at guest services. These backpacks include noise cancelling headsets, weighted blankets, fidget toys and battery chargers for iPads.
• Visitors will find four adult -sized changing tables throughout the stadium. These are located in the family restrooms and allow privacy for families to help toileting with dignity.
• Variety KC Communication Boards are located at the first aid areas of the stadium and will allow non-verbal children to easily communicate their wants and needs to friends and families.
• Children Mercy Park staff has been trained to recognize families who may need assistance and are informed on how to assist in a kind and friendly manner.
• Handicap Parking is available to guests with special needs and ample accessible seating is available, including seating for families and friends.

We are so proud of the efforts to include all kids and families into the world of live in-person soccer!  It’s one more step in our goal to create a true inclusion revolution in KC. One where all kids and families are welcome – and all can Be Active, be Social and Belong.