Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa, along with author and Variety board member Jon Phillips, are proud to announce the publication of a new children’s book: Joni’s Wish.
The Book
Joni’s Wish highlights the importance of inclusivity and tells the story of Variety’s impact throughout the community. The book follows Joni and her neighbor Carl (who is living with special needs) through their many adventures on their new Variety bikes while learning how Variety helps children throughout Iowa.
“Promoting inclusivity is so important, and that’s what makes Joni’s Wish so special. It is critical to teach children to accept and love others who may look and play differently than they do. Joni’s Wish highlights how beautiful those friendships can be. This book also does a wonderful job of capturing everything Variety is about: our mobility program where we provide specialized bikes/equipment and traditional bikes to children in need, our grant and van program where we provide funding to children’s organizations, our partnership with local hospitals to help critically ill children, the inclusive playgrounds we’ve built throughout Iowa, and our history with the Variety Telethon. This book is a must-have for anyone wanting to teach love and acceptance to the children in their lives!” – Sheri McMichael, Executive Director of Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa.
Variety’s Work
“None of Charlie’s major developmental milestones would have been possible if it weren’t for the support of Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa. While the book Charlie appears in is titled Joni’s Wish, our family feels as though our wishes and dreams are coming true as a result of our partnership with Variety- the Children’s Charity of Iowa, and for that, we are eternally grateful.” – Nancy Curtis, Charlie’s mom.
Launch Party
Variety is hosting a launch party for Joni’s Wish on Tuesday, February 21st at NCMIC. Attendees will receive an early-access signed copy of the book to take home, unlimited appetizers and drinks, and will be able to witness a specialized bike presentation to a local child! Tickets can be purchased here.
Bring the whole family along – children are free to attend the event.
Connect with Variety 
Variety – the Children’s Charity is dedicated to improving the lives of children who are at risk, underprivileged, critically ill, or living with special needs throughout Iowa. Funding is provided to programs and initiatives that directly impact the well-being of children in our community. For more information on how you can be a part of our work, please visit VarietyIowa.com.
