Yesterday we got a package in the mail from Variety, a Wisconsin-based organization that supports families who have children with disabilities. Variety assists with everything from adaptive bikes to allow children with disabilities to just be kids. Variety also hosts a variety of activities to give these families a chance to enjoy different outings and activities that might not otherwise be available to them. Their goal is simple, according to their Web site: Enriching the lives of children with physical or developmental special needs and their families.
Last year was the first time that we joined any of their events as many are further away from where we live. But they hosted holiday gatherings throughout the state, with one near us, at local movie theaters. Our family was able to go to a movie, visit Santa (and creeper stare at him as Teddy is fascinated by him but not so sure about up close and personal) and got a few treats for the boys. It was a great experience, although predictably Teddy watched very little of the movie. He enjoyed himself exploring the theater, and it wasn't a bit deal that he didn't sit nicely the entire time. It was a welcoming and inclusive environment, which was so appreciated.
This summer they did summer picnic baskets, so we used that as an excuse for an outing to make the drive to pick up the goodies. The boys had so much fun with the treats, and we enjoyed a break from the usual pandemic routine.
The holiday gatherings didn't happen this year, but they offered Christmas goodie bags. We didn't want to commit to making the drive in case the weather was bad, yet they mailed a box of fun and goodies for both our kiddos to our house. We're waiting to dig into it until this weekend but are looking forward to it.
It's little things that make a big difference. Variety is less about the treats or goodies and more about the inclusion and acceptance.
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