What is the Variety Telethon?
Since 1975, Iowans have joined together to contribute their time, talent and hearts to the annual Variety Telethon. The telethon is the foundation that Variety of Iowa was built upon and is the highlight of our year. On March 6 & 7, 2010, ABC5 will broadcast this two day event throughout central Iowa. In addition, KCAU in Sioux City, WHBF in the Quad Cities, KWWL in Waterloo and Cedar Rapids and Mediacom stations throughout the state broadcast the telethon reaching 98 percent of Iowa and bordering areas of Illinois, Nebraska and South Dakota. Each year a line-up of local and international celebrities appear along with thousands of volunteers and donors who continue to give their time and money to support Iowa's children. The telethon provides Variety the opportunity to highlight the kids and agencies that benefit from the dollars raised.
VIP PanelsVariety's VIPs or "Very Interested Persons" work miracles before and during their time on the front line phones on the telethon raising awareness and money. The dedication of Variety's VIPs has consistently generated more than $1 million annually by collecting pledges large and small.