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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 thirteenth 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
Speaker Series: Leanne Barrett from RI Kids Count
Wednesday, May 21th
Join us for an insightful event dedicated to the critical issue of child care and how to effectively advocate for accessible, affordable solutions. This series will feature experts, policymakers, and community leaders who will provide practical tools and strategies to drive meaningful change. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or advocate, this series will empower you with the knowledge and skills to support better child care policies and resources for all families. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and make a lasting impact!
https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3135383138
Speaker Series: Child Care Accessibility and Affordability
Wednesday, May 21th
Leanne Barrett from RI Kids Count
Join us for an insightful event dedicated to the critical issue of child care and how to effectively advocate for accessible, affordable solutions. This series will feature experts, policymakers, and community leaders who will provide practical tools and strategies to drive meaningful change. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or advocate, this series will empower you with the knowledge and skills to support better child care policies and resources for all families. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and make a lasting impact!
https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3135383138
Advocacy 101
Wednesday June 4th 5pm via Zoom (in person TBD)
Led by Peggy Desjarlais, Program Officer, Policy & Advocacy
Ready to make a difference? Join us for Advocacy 101, a dynamic training designed to equip you with the tools and strategies to effectively advocate for the causes you care about. Learn how to share your story, engage with policymakers, and drive meaningful change in your community. Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your skills, this training will empower you to amplify your voice and take action. Don’t miss this opportunity to become a stronger advocate for the issues that matter most!
https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3135373834
Day of Action 2025
Day of Action is a worldwide United Way event, offering volunteer opportunities focused on the work of local United Way organizations. In Rhode Island, the Day of Action will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 9 AM - 1 PM to sort, label, and prepare the books for distribution to children in summer learning and afterschool programs.
To register, please click here: https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3135383931
Equity Challenge 2025
During a time of uncertainty and division, United Way of Rhode Island aims to help bring together individuals and organizations towards a greater understanding around the practices underlying humanity, respect, and inclusion. The Equity Challenge is in its fifth year and iteration and is centered on the concept of “U.N.I.T.E.” (Universal, Neighborly, Intentional, Transformative, and Equity).
Equity Challenge 2025 will explore the following topics.
Monday, June 16: Universal
Tuesday, June 17: Neighborly
Wednesday, June 18: Intentional
Thursday, June 19: Transformation
Friday, June 20: Equity