Our Mission
uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities
WELCOME
2021 marked the beginning of our new strategic plan — LIVE UNITED 2025.
LIVE UNITED 2025 gives us a new mission and specific, measurable goals.
Our mission is uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.
Racism, health, justice, and economics
2020 spotlighted the failure for us, and everyone involved, of the war on poverty. After 50 years, this effort has been ineffective in creating opportunity and prosperity for all members of our community.
The pandemic showed that where you live and the color of your skin is a powerful determinant of your likelihood to live or die from COVID-19. And, murders of our neighbors like George Floyd and Breonna Taylor remind us that Black Rhode Islanders are eight times as likely to be in jail as whites.
That’s why we felt it was so important that our plan explicitly address systemic inequity – i.e., policies that promote unequal opportunity and treatment of people of color. We know it’s the right thing to do morally. It’s also the smart thing to do economically.
Going deep, rather than wide
The plan will require United Way of Rhode Island to go “deep, rather than wide,” with investments and partners, to target the root causes that have thwarted Rhode Island’s ability to thrive. While we serve all Rhode Islanders in need, this plan will tackle Rhode Island’s great challenge, reversing the racial inequities that have plagued Rhode Island’s Black and brown communities for generations.
In order to “Live United,” we must dismantle systemic, institutional, and historical barriers based on race, gender, sexual orientation, and other identities. We commit to leveraging all of our assets (i.e., advocacy, convening, fundraising, strategic investments, awareness building) to create a more equitable Rhode Island.
LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan
The LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan will guide United Way of Rhode Island’s next five years from 2020 until 2025, just in time for our centennial celebration. You can download our full strategic plan below. Alternatively, you can read about what we’re doing right now in each of its four focus areas:
- LIFT UNITED: Building economic security. (Learn more)
- ACHIEVE UNITED: Advancing childhood learning. (Learn more)
- INVEST UNITED: Expanding philanthropy. (Learn more)
- ADVOCATE UNITED: Driving policy and participation. (Learn more)
Truly a united effort; please join us
The LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan is rooted in data and guided by feedback from thousands of Rhode Islanders over the past few years. We are abundantly grateful to the thousands of individuals who contributed to the transformative plan that will guide our important work together and to those who support us.
I hope you’ll join us in this journey to make sure Rhode Island is a place where every individual in each community has equal opportunity for justice and prosperity.
Cortney Nicolato
President and CEO
HISTORY
From our inception in 1926, United Way of Rhode Island has effectively moved people from crisis to stability while working to shore up the systems that provide support across the community.
And, when called to action in the face of a global pandemic, we proved that we were built over the last 95 years as the best organization in the state to effectively harness resources from government, corporations, nonprofits and individuals to address the many major crises affecting all of us.
1926
Providence Community Fund formed to combine the fundraising efforts of various agencies and distribute fund according to where the community assessed the greatest need.
1926
Under Henry Sharpe’s leadership first president and campaign chair, raised more than $480,000 in a remarkably successful one-week campaign in October.
1935
Cranston joins forces with us to conduct a single community fund campaign.
1937
Royal Little, founder of Textron, established a trust fund administered by the Rhode Island Foundation that to this day pays a large majority of the organization’s fundraising and administrative costs.
1938
The Hurricane of 1938 devastates the state, stretching the ability of the fund’s agencies to meet community needs. It also floods our headquarters on Weybosett Street, damaging or destroying most records.
1941
Community funds or chests in Blackstone, Burrillville, Central Falls, Cranston, Cumberland, Lincoln, North Smithfield, Pawtucket, Warwick and Woonsocket joined forces with us as United Campaigns of Community Chests to create a stronger sense of statewide unity in philanthropic work.
1942
United Campaigns of Community Chests becomes Rhode Island United War Fund and raises $2.1 million meet the burdens World War II placed on families, especially those with loved ones in the military.
1943
Compulsory withholding of income and social security taxes created the payroll deduction option as a method of donating to workplace campaigns. This remains the favored method of pledging for United Way to this day.
1946
War over, the War Fund was reestablished as Rhode Island Community Chests.
1955
Rhode Island Community Chests became United Fund and began to focus more on accountability of donor investment.
1960s and ’70s
“Great Society” social programs led to duplication of efforts between long-established private agencies and newer government entities.
1973
United Fund becomes United Way of Southeastern New England to recognize donors from and services provided in neighboring Massachusetts and Connecticut.
1990s
Developed Critical Issue Funds in the 1990s to encourage more experimental and collaborative solutions to key issues, like Making It Work and Community Schools-RI.
2002
Renamed United Way of Rhode Island, adopted a new mission: To mobilize the caring power of the community to improve the lives of people in need.
2004
Convened community summits encompassing 800 individuals to identify key problems faced by the community, then defined programs and funding priorities in three impact areas: solutions for children, youth and families; helping people in crisis; and building adult and neighborhood independence.
January 2005
Under new CEO Tony Maione, awarded first-ever competitive grants. More than $9 million was awarded to 66 organizations for 77 programs. Twenty-six had never received funding before from United Way’s general fund.
2006-2012
Awarded two rounds of three-year grants totaling $25.8 million to scores of social service organizations in Rhode Island, generating measurable results to create a better community and to be relevant to donors. Combined grantmaking with advocacy and public policy work.
2008
New headquarters at 50 Valley Street comes alive with community organizations and people in need of service from United Way 211 in Rhode Island.
2018
CEO Tony Maione passes the baton to Cortney Nicolato in time to convene community members in a new strategic planning process.
2021
Launch LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan with new mission: Uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders. Establish specific, measurable goals for 2025.
Reflecting the Communities We Serve
At United Way of Rhode Island, we believe the people leading and guiding our work should reflect the diverse communities we serve. Over the past five years, we have been intentional about building a staff and board whose lived experiences, cultural backgrounds, and perspectives mirror those of Rhode Islanders across the state.
Today, nearly half of our board members identify as people of color, compared to 38% of Rhode Island’s population, ensuring that voices from historically underrepresented communities help shape our strategy, funding decisions, and advocacy priorities.
Our staff, too, represents a broad range of racial, ethnic, and cultural identities, bringing language skills, community knowledge, and professional expertise that make our work stronger and more inclusive.
This diversity matters. It helps us listen more deeply, partner more authentically, and ensure that equity is not just a goal, but a value reflected in every decision we make.
Internally United
As we reflect on the last five years, it’s clear that the impact we create in the community depends on the strength of the organization behind it—which is why our own growth and evolution deserve to be part of this story. We have invested not only in our community but in ourselves—building a stronger, more inclusive, and more connected United Way. From embracing Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) values in everything we do, to strengthening our workplace culture, aligning staff and board leadership with the communities we serve, and modernizing how we work together, this internal transformation has made us a better partner to Rhode Island.
Living Our Values: JEDI Culture and a Best Place to Work
At United Way of Rhode Island, we believe that building a stronger, more just state starts within our own walls. Guided by the Live United 2025 plan, we have worked to create a workplace where Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) are not just ideals—they are everyday practices.
Our team reflects the communities we serve—multicultural, multidimensional, and deeply committed to equity. We focus on strengths-based leadership, ensuring every staff member can do what they do best, supported by professional development and a culture that values collaboration, respect, and shared purpose.
This focus on people and values is why employees have voted United Way one of the Best Places to Work in Rhode Island for six years, including the past five in a row. Staff consistently cite the combination of mission-driven work, community impact, and an inclusive environment as reasons why United Way is a place where they feel proud to work and grow.
Our JEDI commitment is not a single initiative or training—it’s woven through our strategic priorities, our internal culture, and the way we partner with the community. By living these values every day, we aim to model the kind of equity-centered leadership that drives lasting change across Rhode Island.
JEDI STAFF Testimonials
“I can personally attest to United Way’s commitment to equity. When life took a hard turn for me, the organization, and our leadership, demonstrated what it truly means to live our values, putting their words into action. They stood by me and made sure I had what I needed to fulfill my role, and to continue growing and thriving. This experience affirmed for me that our culture is not performative; it is authentic, lived, and practiced.”
Courtney Smith – Director of Innovation and Community Outreach, United Way of RI
“I couldn't have finished college without the team's support and the amazing mentors I had along the way… it is a breath of fresh air to see a team that regards themselves as family. As a first-generation college student, I am thankful that I get to share one of my biggest accomplishments with the people who believed in me and took a chance.”
Ana Mercado, Staff Accountant, Accounts Payable, United Way of RI
Equity Challenge: Building a Shared Language for Change
Achieving racial equity and social justice begins with learning—and a willingness to see the world through a different lens. That’s why United Way of Rhode Island launched the Equity Challenge, a statewide initiative designed to help individuals and organizations explore issues like implicit bias, privilege, systemic racism, and allyship through daily readings, videos, and reflection prompts.
Under Live United 2025, the Equity Challenge invited thousands of Rhode Islanders to commit to learning together, year after year. Each cycle brought new themes, updated content, and fresh opportunities for reflection—helping participants build a shared commitment to and deeper understanding of what it takes to create a more equitable state.
The Challenge also created a pathway for action. Many workplaces used it as a springboard for internal conversations, professional development, and policy changes. Others became United Way Equity Champions, signaling their commitment to advancing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in lasting ways.
One of the most important lessons from the Equity Challenge is that we are all works in progress. But progress comes from commitment—and United Way remains dedicated to creating spaces where learning leads to action, and action leads to change.
Rhode Island Kicks-Off State Employee Giving Campaign in Support of United Way, Local Nonprofits
More than 17,000 public servants invited to give back through the campaign, which has raised $2.6 million over the last ten years alone Providence, R.I. (September 30, 2025) – The State of Rhode Island has officially launched its annual State Employee Charitable Giving Campaign in support of United Way of RI and local nonprofits. The […]
Local Leaders join United Way’s Community Advisory Board
Providence, R.I. (September 15, 2025) – United Way of Rhode Island has bolstered its Community Advisory Board, appointing two new members to serve on the volunteer leadership group. The advisory board is a diverse collection of industry leaders who come together to lend their expertise and unique experiences and insights to help United Way align […]
Rhode Island Launches 2025 State Employee Charitable Giving Campaign
More than 17,000 public servants invited to give back through annual campaign running through Thanksgiving
UPCOMING EVENTS
Join the Family Caregiver Alliance of Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging, and United Way of Rhode Island at the 7th Annual Family Caregiver Alliance Conference
This year's theme is: "Together in Care: Stories, Strength, and Support"
This two-day event will be held on Friday, November 14 from 9:00 am to 12:30pm and Saturday, November from 9:00 am to 2:00pm in the RISD Washington Place Auditorium located at 20 Washington Street, Providence, RI 02903 - Free parking will be available for registered participants.
Whether you care for a loved one, support a friend, work in health or social services, or advocate for caregivers, this conference offers valuable resources and connection.
The event is free and open to all, but space is limited. Please register for the days you wish to attend.
Who Is a Family Caregiver?
Family caregivers are everywhere. The FCARI supports youth, grandparents, friends, or neighbors who step up to help someone they care about.
That includes those who:
-Support a loved one with a physical, intellectual, or developmental disability (ID/DD)
-Provide care for someone living with dementia, cancer, or another serious illness
-Help an older adult with daily tasks
-Care for a child or youth with complex needs
Links for registration:
Day One https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3136373734
Day Two: https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3136373832
September Speaker Series: Women United – Global to Local Impact – Sept. 19th
Celebrate the power of Women United—from global leadership to community action right here in Rhode Island. Join us virtually and hear inspiring stories of Women United’s influence, creative member engagement, and the tangible results of our Community Impact Fund—including the work of grant award recipients making a difference for families across Rhode Island.
📅 Date: Friday, September 19, 2025
⏰ Time: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. (EST)
📍 Location: Virtual (link provided upon registration)
🔗 Register Today: https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3136363030
Featured Speakers:
• Patrice Maloney-Knauff, Esq. – Women United Global Leadership Council, United Way of Lake County (IL)
• Jenny Holsman Tetreault – Chair, Women United Global Leadership Council, Vice President and Associate General Counsel of Litigation & Compliance TPI Composites, Inc.
• Carolyn Kennedy Chubb – Women United Executive Council Chair, United Way of Northern New Jersey
• Roshni Darnal - Director, Community Investments, United Way of Rhode Island