GAME CHANGER

Variety cuts ribbon on state-of-the-art cabin

It’s been a while since the grounds of Variety — The Children’s Charity of the Delaware Valley have had any new additions, but that changed when the ribbon was cut on a brand-new multi-purpose cabin.

Variety CEO Dominique Bernardo said this latest addition not only changes the landscape of Variety, but it’s also a game-changer for the kids and young adults it will serve.

“This multi-purpose cabin represents transformation in action and the vision for growth and modernization by our board of directors and staff,” Bernardo said. “Nearly three times the size of our older cabins, this 3,000-square-foot structure will be a home to Variety’s programs year-round with spaces for shared activities, sleeping quarters, classrooms, a calming room, and community activities and special events.

“Our program participants deserve facilities and a campus where they will grow and thrive, and we are committed to ensuring the delivery of unique, creative programming on a campus that is modern, functional, and safe.”

Since 1935, Variety — The Children’s Charity of the Delaware Valley has continued its mission to enrich the lives of children and young adults with disabilities. And with each passing year, the programs grow and expand to meet the needs of those young adults and children. The Worcester campus provides year-round educational programs; day camps; summer camp; adult socials; after-school programs; job coaching services and other vocational programs.

The facility is the first new construction on Variety’s 77acre campus in more than four decades. As Bernardo noted, the state-of-the-art cabin includes classrooms and other shared spaces providing modernized and adaptive spaces for the organization’s year-round programs including extended school year, after-school programs, vocational programs and more.

As it’s been said, it takes a village — and that is true for the success of Variety as well. The new cabin, and all it will offer Variety’s participants, was made possible by the help and support of local lawmakers, businesses, and the community.

Variety leaders extended a special thank you to the many people involved including state Sen. Maria Collett; state Rep. Matt Bradford; Allan Myers Inc.; Caritas Construction; Samuel Staten Jr.; Montgomery County Commissioner Tom DiBello, and Worcester Township Supervisor Rick DeLello,

PHOTO PROVIDED BY VARIETY — THE CHILDREN’S CHARITY Pictured from left at the ribbon cutting ceremony are: Maribeth Schmidt, board member; State Representative Matt Bradford; Variety CEO Dominique Bernardo; and Variety board member Doug Zeiders.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY VARIETY — THE CHILDREN’S CHARITY Variety CEO Dominique Bernardo, State Senator Maria Collett and Variety Ambassador Isaac are pictured inside the new cabin.