Variety of Western Michigan

Granting access to activities and social inclusion is a focus of Variety of Western Michigan. Children with special needs are often bystanders in life, rather than active participants due to a lack of infrastructure in the community.

The Grand Rapids Symphony is committed to equal access. Music in general is therapeutic to children and Variety helped fund the Symphony’s “Access to Music” program, concerts that are provided free to children with disabilities or economic limitations.

The Indian Trails Camp provides experiences for children with disabilities. Variety assisted last year with a grant of accessible playground equipment. Variety’s lead was followed by other donors and the camp now has a full playground of accessible playground equipment.

To enhance character and provide mentoring, Variety of Western Michigan supported local Boys and Girls Clubs and the Big Brother / Big Sister mentoring program.