Welcome
United Way of Rhode Island's mission is uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.
Learn more about United Way of Rhode Island's mission and history.
NEED HELP NOW? cALL 211.
United Way’s 211 in Rhode Island is the statewide front door to social services. We can connect you and those you care about with food, housing, job training, and much more.
Not sure if we can help? Prefer to search our resource database on your own? Learn more about 211.
What we're fighting for
UNITING OUR COMMUNITY
Our 10,000+ donors include teachers, union workers, government employees, and corporate staff who give what they can from their paychecks. And each and every one of them is making a difference. Here's why some have pledged to support our mission. (See full list.)
Ashley Gingerella O'Shea
Individual Donor
"I am dedicated to giving back to the state, which has given me and my family so much. I love Rhode Island and am committed to the betterment of my state. I want my children to grow up in an even stronger, more equitable Rhode Island."
OAK STREET HEALTH
Workplace Partner
"The United Way is a 'rock' in Rhode Island, and they have done incredible work for 90+ years. This plan will ensure the state is supported appropriately over the next five years. I and my company would like to be part of that effort to improve Rhode Island for everyone."
Newport partnership for families
Nonprofit Partner
"I dream for Rhode Island to be a place where all voices are heard, respected, and honored. I'm so grateful to the United Way for taking the lead to encourage all organizations to make fundamental changes to make our communities better places for all to live."
Uniting with workplaces
United Way of Rhode Island provides resources and consultative support to help companies shape and measure the return on their community investment and corporate social responsibility.
We’re proud to partner with companies and organizations across the state in support of our mission and their community focus.
Companies partnering with United Way through shared purpose co-create greater value through impact, engagement and reputation.
Workplace giving programs engage employees, build a spirit of teamwork, and increase morale all while making an impact on the community.
uniting with and supporting nonprofits
Do you run a local nonprofit? We want to help. Check out our capacity building resources.
Join us and live united!
Give
Every $1 makes a difference, because every gift helps someone in Rhode Island.
Advocate
Get behind what you care about. Share your voice, lend your name, and get involved.
Volunteer
Put your talents to work. Help your community and have fun doing it.
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 Hosts 13th Children’s Book Drive
United Way of Rhode Island’s Children’s Book Drive is back! In April and May, we’re teaming up with Books Are Wings to help Rhode Island children build their own libraries at home. Join us by buying and shipping books, dropping off books at one of our collection sites, or hosting a drive.
United Way Honors Local Champions at 98th Annual Celebration
It’s been a year of creating a stronger, more equitable Rhode Island, and as United Way used its 98th Annual Celebration to cast light on the change made possible when our community works together, the organization also honored local champions who have gone above and beyond in service.
United Way of Rhode Island Receives $20,000 from Point32Health Foundation to Support “United We Vote RI” Campaign
Providence, R.I. (October 15, 2024) – United Way of Rhode Island has received $20,000 from Point32Health Foundation to support its ongoing “United We Vote RI” campaign as the November election draws closer. The grant is part of a larger investment by the foundation to support advocacy work to promote policies that include the perspective of […]
UPCOMING EVENTS
United Way of Rhode Island Hosts 13th Children’s Book Drive in April and May
United Way of Rhode Island's Children's Book Drive is returning for its twelfth year. In April and May, United Way is once again partnering with Books Are Wings to help Rhode Island children build their own libraries at home.
Rhode Islanders are invited to buy and ship books, drop off new and gently used books at a community collection site, or host a drive with their family, friends, or coworkers.
For more information, view our Children's Book Drive 2025 Frequently Asked Questions
Join us at Power of Women: Leading with Purpose
Join us for Power of Women: Leading With Purpose, our reimagined celebration formerly known as Power of the Purse. This year’s event brings together women from across Rhode Island during Women’s History Month to connect, empower, and inspire each other during an elegant brunch.