Community
Imo's for Kids Day on Oct. 15
Imo’s Pizza partners with Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis in October to Help Local Kids with Special Needs.
Imo’s Pizza is proud to announce its continued partnership with Variety the Children’s Charity of Saint Louis, an organization dedicated to empowering local kids and teens with special needs.
This year’s Imo’s for Kids Day will take place on Wednesday, October 15, with more than 90 Imo’s Pizza locations participating. On this day, Imo’s will donate portion of all proceeds to Variety St. Louis, supporting life-changing programs for more than 1,400 local families.
A Legacy of Support
“Variety St. Louis holds a special place in our hearts, and we are honored to support their mission of providing children with the tools they need to overcome challenges and embrace their full potential,” shares Imo’s Pizza Founder, Margie Imo. “We salute their 90+ years of service to the children and families of the St. Louis region.” This enduring partnership between Variety St. Louis and the Imo’s family spans more than two decades and has resulted in more than $2 million in support.
“Variety St. Louis holds a special place in our hearts, and we are honored to support their mission of providing children with the tools they need to overcome challenges and embrace their full potential.”
Variety Lunch at Imo’s on Hampton, 1998.
Addressing Critical Needs
Families of children with special needs face enormous financial challenges as they strive to provide for their child’s basic needs and independence. Imo’s support is crucial, especially now as requests for Variety’s programs have surged, creating significant waitlists for essential tools such as medical equipment, communication devices, therapies, and recreational opportunities.
“Variety Families count on Imo’s and the community so their children with special needs can have continued access to Variety’s medical equipment, therapy, recreation, and performing arts programs,” explains Brian Roy, Executive Director of Variety the Children’s Charity.
Meet Veronica: Transforming Uncertainty into Independence
For 90 years, Variety St. Louis has supported local children with disabilities by providing essential medical equipment, therapies, and social opportunities. This vital support helps Variety Kids unlock their full potential, and 21-year-old Veronica is living proof. Diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus before birth—and later cerebral palsy and epilepsy—Veronica faced a future filled with uncertainty. After undergoing multiple surgeries and needing specialized care, her family found relief and hope through Variety’s programs.
From a young age, Variety provided Veronica with life-changing resources, including orthotics, power wheelchairs, and even modifications to her family’s van. These tools not only eased financial burdens for her parents, Diane and Don, but also helped Veronica grow into a joyful, empathetic young woman. Her infectious smile and loving nature continue to touch everyone she meets. “It’s unimaginable to think about life without Variety,” says Diane. “Veronica’s quality of life wouldn’t be where it is today without them.”
Now entering adulthood, Veronica’s final step toward greater independence came through the LUCI system—an advanced safety technology added to her power wheelchair. With this new tool, she’s confidently navigating her neighborhood and embracing her future. Veronica’s journey is a powerful reminder of how support from Variety can transform lives. By giving to Variety, you help children like Veronica thrive—not just as kids, but as valued, capable members of their communities.
Meet Tre: Overcoming Barriers with Variety’s Support
When Tre was just three days old, he was diagnosed with Craniosynostosis, a rare condition that causes the bones in a baby’s skull to fuse too early. Facing the fear of developmental delays, his mom, Camesha, was determined to find the right support for her son’s healing and growth. That support came in the form of Variety St. Louis, which provided Tre with a specialized helmet to aid in his recovery—and opened the door to so much more.
Through Variety’s enrichment programs, Tre has found confidence, creativity, and community. He’s taken the stage with the Variety Chorus, Dance, and Curtain Call programs, attended Adventure and Winter Camps, and even performed at Variety Unbound in front of hundreds. These experiences have not only brought him joy but also helped him discover where he belongs. “Tre has found his people, and he feels comfortable in his own skin,” says Camesha.
“Since we found Variety, his self-esteem has bolstered,” shares Camisha.
But the biggest transformation has been internal. Tre’s time with Variety has helped boost his self-esteem and social confidence—benefits that extend far beyond the stage. For Tre and Camesha, Variety has been more than a resource—it’s been a lifeline. “Since we found Variety, his self-esteem has bolstered,” Camesha shares. It’s a reminder that with the right support, every child can shine.
Making a Difference in the Community
Leveraging considerable reach and influence as a St. Louis institution, Imo’s Pizza continues to make a significant difference in the community, particularly for Variety Kids. This successful partnership is celebrated with great pride and gratitude by Variety families. Thanks to the generosity and support of Imo’s fans, children with special needs in the St. Louis region have access to vital equipment and therapy, transforming their lives forever.
Show Your Support
On October 15, make a purchase at any Imo’s Pizza location or online to support this wonderful cause. Your contribution will help provide essential resources to children with special needs, ensuring they have the opportunities and tools necessary to thrive.
Let’s come together to support Imo’s for Kids Day and make a lasting impact on the lives of these amazing children and their families.
Delivery 
Carryout