NEWSROOM
Statement from United Way of Rhode Island on the Election of Senate President Valarie Lawson
United Way of Rhode Island congratulates Senator Valarie Lawson on her election as Senate President. As an educator, labor leader, and dedicated public servant, President Lawson brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to equity, opportunity, and community engagement.
United Way to Release RFP Friday for “United Is The Way” Safety Net Grants for Nonprofits Providing Critical Services to Rhode Islanders
With a priority to expand support for nonprofits and families amid growing federal uncertainty, United Way of Rhode Island is set to release a request for proposals (RFP) on Friday for new safety net grants through its “United Is The Way” initiative. (more…)
United Way: 211, Point programs save R.I. $1.2M in reduced nonemergency 911 calls
United Way of Rhode Island Inc.’s 211 and Point programs significantly reduced the state’s financial burden on nonemergency calls to 911 and to other state agencies in 2024, the organization said on Feb. 11 at the Statehouse. (more…)
United Way is Increasing Support of Nonprofits and Families Amid Federal Uncertainty, New Safety Net Grants Will be Made Available
“United Is The Way” will focus on expanding the services and supports available to local organizations and Rhode Islanders, and a special round of funding for nonprofit. (more…)
Rhode Islanders Connect 200,000+ times with United Way 211 and Point, Program Generated Significant Economic Benefit and Savings to State in 2024
For every dollar invested in the public service that’s free and available 24/7, 365, the return on investment to Rhode Island is $7.50
United In Action Amid Chaos and Uncertainty
A message from Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO
For generations, nonprofits have answered the call, stepping up to serve our communities despite being underfunded by the federal government.
Help the helpers: Rhode Island needs its nonprofits, and R.I. nonprofits need support amid chaos and uncertainty
The Boston Globe RI
While the memo from the Trump administration to freeze federal funds has been rescinded, the actions and intent have not, writes Cortney M. Nicolato the president and CEO of United Way of Rhode Island.
United Way’s Larry Warner named President of RI Public Health Association
Providence, R.I. (January 22, 2025) – As it continues its work to advance health equity in the Ocean State, the Rhode Island Public Health Association (RIPHA) has named a new president, appointing Larry Warner, DrPH, MPH, to a 2-year term. Dr. Warner is the Chief Impact & Equity Officer of United Way of Rhode Island, and previously served on the RIPHA board as an officer. (more…)
Providence Equity Fund
United Way of Rhode Island is collaborating with the City of Providence to address the inequities that still exist in all areas of our society, and to help create a community where every Rhode Islander can thrive.
Through a historic allocation of 10 million dollars in funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), initially by former Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza, with a continued commitment by current Mayor Brett Smiley, United Way of Rhode Island is helping administer the granting and allocation of $3 million over 2 years through the Providence Equity Fund.
This initiative closely follows the work and recommendations of the Providence Municipal Reparations Commission. This is a pivotal milestone for our state in addressing the systemic racial inequities and injustices that have persisted for generations, holding back our BIPOC communities.
These efforts represent one of the most significant commitments to repairing the harm done to these communities anywhere in the United States. This fund and its grants fully align with the goals of our LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan and reinforce our commitment to advancing racial and social equity and inclusion throughout Rhode Island.
The fund is designed to address the most pressing inequities within Providence, like systemic racism and socio-economic disparities. It also creates ways to achieve sustainable development and social justice, with an emphasis on communities of color, which have been historically underserved and disadvantaged by the existing structural systems. The COVID pandemic exacerbated many of the disparities that already existed.
United Way of Rhode Island is collaborating with the City of Providence to address the inequities that still exist in all areas of our society, and to help create a community where every Rhode Islander can thrive.
Through a historic allocation of 10 million dollars in funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), initially by former Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza, with a continued commitment by current Mayor Brett Smiley, United Way of Rhode Island is helping administer the granting and allocation of $3 million over 2 years through the Providence Equity Fund.
This initiative closely follows the work and recommendations of the Providence Municipal Reparations Commission. This is a pivotal milestone for our state in addressing the systemic racial inequities and injustices that have persisted for generations, holding back our BIPOC communities.
These efforts represent one of the most significant commitments to repairing the harm done to these communities anywhere in the United States. This fund and its grants fully align with the goals of our LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan and reinforce our commitment to advancing racial and social equity and inclusion throughout Rhode Island.
The fund is designed to address the most pressing inequities within Providence, like systemic racism and socio-economic disparities. It also creates ways to achieve sustainable development and social justice, with an emphasis on communities of color, which have been historically underserved and disadvantaged by the existing structural systems. The COVID pandemic exacerbated many of the disparities that already existed.
United Way of Rhode Island invests in organizations that support entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and job training to foster lasting economic change. Recognizing the long-term damage caused by urban renewal projects, this investment area also supports advocacy and housing initiatives aimed at rebuilding and restoring communities that have been disproportionately affected. By empowering residents and championing fair housing policies, the fund contributes to healthier, more resilient neighborhoods. Additionally, through programs that promote arts, advocacy, and education and serve the needs of diverse communities, the Providence Equity Fund helps build a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape.
United Way to Hold 21-Day Equity Challenge
“In alignment with the goals of its recently released LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan, United Way of Rhode Island today opened registration for its 21-Day Equity Challenge that kicks off February 24. All Rhode Islanders are invited to commit 15 minutes a day to equity with the goal of understanding how inequity and racism affect our lives and our communities.”
Larry Warner Promoted to Chief Impact and Equity Officer at United Way of R.I.
“As a key member of the executive leadership team, Warner will lead United Way’s efforts and strategies to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.”
United Way Commits $100 Million to Build Racial Equity and Opportunities for All Rhode Islanders
“United Way’s new 5-year strategic plan will address the root causes of the systemic barriers that have thwarted Rhode Island’s ability to thrive.”
United Way of R.I. the Recipient of $10 Million from Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott
“United Way of Rhode Island has received a gift in the amount of $10 million from philanthropist and novelist, MacKenzie Scott.”
United Way of R.I. Issues Request for Proposals, Makes $2M Available in Grants
“United Way of Rhode Island has released a request for proposals (RFP), making available $2 million in grants from its Community Impact Fund.”
Man Up, Inc. Wins Nonprofit Innovation Lab Pitch Finals, Secures $50,000 in Seed Funding to Implement Unique Community Solution
“Out of a pool of 5 finalists, Man Up, Inc. took home the grand prize of the Nonprofit Innovation Lab’s pitch finals on November 12, securing $50,000 in seed funding to support the creation of new economic development opportunities for previously incarcerated men of color.”
Secretary Gorbea, United Way of R.I. Launch 2-1-1 Voter Information Hotline
“With Rhode Island’s September 8 primary and November 3 general election fast approaching, Secretary of State Nellie M. Gorbea today announced a partnership with Island to launch the state’s new 2-1-1 Voter Information Hotline.”
United Way Sends $600,000 in ‘Rhode Island Recovers’ Grants to 41 Local Organizations to Support Continuity of Services
“Through a new funding program established to support nonprofits’ ability to continue their services to Rhode Islanders amid the COVID-19 crisis, United Way of Rhode Island (UWRI) has sent $600,000 in ‘Rhode Island Recovers’ grants to 41 local organizations.”
Exceeding Goal, 401Gives Raises $1.2 Million for R.I. Nonprofits in Single Day
“In a sign of unity that will impact the lives of tens of thousands of their neighbors, Rhode Islanders came together to raise a total of $1,252,786 during the first-ever 401Gives campaign powered by United Way of Rhode Island (UWRI).”
COVID-19 Response Fund awards $1.2 million in first round of grants to local nonprofits
“Less than two weeks after the Rhode Island Foundation and United Way of Rhode Island jointly established the COVID-19 Response Fund, the organizations today announced a first round of crisis response grants to local nonprofit organizations.”
Calls to 2-1-1 for Help with Housing, Food, and Health Information Rose in 2019
“New data released today by United Way of Rhode Island (UWRI) shows requests to its 2-1-1 call center for help with primary basic needs increased in 2019 compared to the previous year.”
United Way, Social Enterprise Greenhouse Select 10 Fellows for Nonprofit Innovation Lab
“Leaders from ten Rhode Island-based nonprofits have been selected as Fellows for a unique social innovation program created by United Way of Rhode Island (UWRI) and Social Enterprise Greenhouse.”
