Who are we?

The “Variety Club” was formed in 1928 in Pennsylvania when a group of entertainers who had just formed a social club, decided to help a baby girl who was abandoned at a downtown theatre in Pittsburgh. She had a note pinned to her blanket which read:

"Please take care of my baby. Her name is Catherine and I can no longer take care of her, I have eight others. She was born on Thanksgiving Day. I have always heard of the goodness of show-business people and I pray to God that you will look out for her."

The “Variety Club” quickly evolved into an international charity dedicated to helping sick, disabled, and disadvantaged children regardless of race, creed or nationality.

Variety International is now a non-profit volunteer driven organization with branches in 14 countries. Since its inception Variety International has raised millions of dollars for children worldwide.

Variety of Ottawa has been serving underprivileged and special needs children in our region since January of 1999.

Our Mission

Variety of Ottawa – “The Children’s Charity” will provide assistance to children challenged by physical or mental disabilities, poverty, abuse or neglect.

Through grants, sponsorship and other donations, Variety of Ottawa – “The Children’s Charity” will support programs that positively impact the quality of life of the special needs children in the National Capital Region.