Simon Dallow - Helping Put Smiles On Kid's Faces

Well-known journalist and ONE News anchor Simon Dallow came on his first Variety Bash in 1995 and he's been involved with Variety - The Children's Charity since, most recently accepting the role of Variety Vice Patron. "I loved children long before I had my own. I was always the guy at the party hanging out with the kids in the corner, so the Variety Bash sounded like a fun thing to get involved with!" says Simon. "Variety and I share much of the same ethos - I strongly believe in giving back to others and I like that the money raised here goes to Kiwi kids.

"There is a direct and tangible benefit to children in New Zealand - they have a pressing need, Variety is able to address it and you can see the results straight away. It's really obvious what a difference a specialised trike or piece of equipment makes to a child. Often it's like the last piece in a jigsaw puzzle that just brings their life together. That's what inspires me to be part of Variety".

Simon joined the Variety Board in 1998 before being elected as President from 2000 - 2002 and continued to serve on the Board until 2005, as well as filling the role of Acting CEO for a time. He volunteers his time where he can to help Kiwi kids reach their full potential, whether it's MCing at functions or being part of Variety events like the Variety Bash, Solid Gold Radiothon and NZ Variety Show.

"Variety is essentially a big family, with all sorts of people in the whanau, sharing everything that's great about being a family and spurring each other on to do more for Kiwi kids. Many of these volunteers have been involved for years and share the same charitable ethos as Variety. They give up a bit of their time for the quiet satisfaction of doing something great for children. It's all about the smiles on the kid's faces."

In 2011, Simon was honoured by Variety - The Children's Charity with a Presidential Citation from the President of Variety International for demonstrating the utmost commitment and dedication to fulfilling the mission of Variety in New Zealand. "It was very humbling to be nominated for a Presidential Citation and to be asked to be a Variety Vice Patron. I'm happy to be able to make the tiniest contribution in any way I can and there are always more children that need help. I'm proud of my association with Variety and of what Variety has achieved over the years."