Variety – the Children's Charity of Iowa is honored to be one of the four Tournament Charity Partners of the Principal Charity Classic. Through this incredible partnership, the Principal Charity Classic has helped Variety provide more than 175 pieces of adaptive mobility equipment to children across Iowa, creating opportunities for greater independence, confidence, and inclusion.
Emmalin's Story
Seven-year-old Emmalin is living with Down syndrome and experiences fatigue that can make it difficult to keep pace with her siblings during outdoor activities. Thanks to support from the Principal Charity Classic, Emmalin received a custom Rifton adaptive bike through Variety's Mobility Program, presented by professional golfer Rocco Mediate and Atlantic Bottling.
Her new bike will allow her to participate more fully in family bike rides and walks while helping build her strength, endurance, and independence. Most importantly, it will give her the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors alongside her family and create lasting memories together.
More Than a Tournament Partner
The Principal Charity Classic's impact extends far beyond the golf course. Throughout tournament week, Variety engages hundreds of volunteers, community partners, and supporters to help create meaningful experiences for children and families.
This year, Variety will welcome more than 100 volunteers to help staff Hole 15 during the five-day tournament. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a traditional bike build at the MidAmerican Sustainability Grove, where community members will be able to assemble bicycles that will be inspected by professionals from Bike World before being donated to local children in need.
In addition, Variety will partner with the Des Moines Children's Museum to bring a new and enhanced sensory space to the Family Fun Zone, creating an inclusive environment where children of all abilities could enjoy tournament activities.
Creating Independence Through Mobility
Through Variety's Mobility Program, children living with special needs gain access to adaptive bicycles, gait trainers, standers, specialized strollers, and other life-changing equipment. These mobility devices help children build strength, confidence, independence, and connections within their communities while providing important physical and therapeutic benefits. Because adaptive equipment is often costly and not fully covered by insurance, Variety works closely with physical therapists throughout Iowa to identify children who would benefit most and help families access the equipment they need.
The stories of Emmalin and Bryce are powerful reminders that when a community comes together through partnerships like the Principal Charity Classic, children gain more than equipment - they gain opportunities, experiences, confidence, and the freedom to participate fully in the world around them.
Looking for a chance to play one of Iowa's premier golf courses while making a difference for local children? Save the date for the 48th Annual Miller Lite Golf Invitational on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Wakonda Club in Des Moines! Golfers will enjoy 18 holes on the exclusive course, a delicious meal, fun on-course contests, and refreshments throughout the day—all while supporting Variety and the children we serve.
