(L to R) Variety Board Chair, Maribeth Roman Schmidt; Variety CEO, Dominique Bernardo; Senator Maria Collett; PA State Representative Matt Bradford pictured with members of Variety's Board of Directors (Credit: Deanna McCoy)
Currently, there is not an accessible playground on Variety's campus or in the township, leaving hundreds of local children served by Variety without a recreational space that meets their needs.
State Rep. Matt Bradford and Sen. Maria Collett announced today that Variety, the Children’s Charity of the Delaware Valley, has been awarded a $50,000 state grant for a community accessible playground on its campus in Worcester Township.
The funding will be used to construct, engineer and purchase equipment for the accessible playground. Currently, there is not an accessible playground on Variety's campus or in the township, leaving hundreds of local children served by Variety without a recreational space that meets their needs.
“Variety is a tremendous community organization that provides numerous resources for individuals with disabilities and their loved ones. Building an accessible playground ensures inclusivity in our community, giving all children the ability to play,” said Bradford, D-Montgomery. “I’m thrilled that Variety was awarded this funding and I’m grateful to the Shapiro Administration for investing in community projects that promote recreation for all.”
“Everyone deserves a safe, friendly, and accessible space where we can gather with community, enjoy the outdoors, and be truly included,” said Collett, D-12, Montgomery. “Over the years, I’ve seen how tirelessly the Variety team works to foster that space on their campus for individuals with disabilities. I’m thrilled to support this funding that will enable Variety to develop their campus even further, widen their reach in our community, and support youth and young adults who need it the most.”
“Variety is grateful for this support related to our Master Facilities Plan. As we celebrate our 90th year this year in 2025, we are even more energized in our mission as we strive to improve independence in the children and young adults we served,” said Variety CEO Dominique Bernardo. “What can’t be measured, though, are the many smiles, the bonds of friendship and the feeling of being ‘home’ our Variety families experience when stepping onto our beautiful 77-acre Montgomery County campus. Creating a fully accessible playground is a dream for us, and is a vision that our community deserves.”
The state funding was awarded through the state Department of Community and Economic Development’s Greenways, Trails, and Recreation Program.
