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.
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…)
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 […]
United Way of Rhode Island Elects New Members to its Board of Directors
United Way of Rhode Island has installed a slate of five new members to its Board of Directors, each bringing a unique and powerful perspective to the organization and its mission to create opportunities for all Rhode Islanders. Read more.
UPCOMING EVENTS
National 211 Day Celebration 2025
Rhode Island State House
Please register by Friday, Feb. 7, 2025
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.
📅 Thursday, March 20, 2025
⏰ 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
📍 Bally’s Twin River Lincoln
🎟 $150 per ticket | $1,250 per table of 10
Brunch will be served at 11 a.m. The speaking program will begin at noon.
Interested in sponsoring this event or discussing ways to support? Please contact Karen Alzate at karen.alzate@unitedwayri.org.