NEWSROOM
RI opens path to break cycle of court fees
The Providence Journal
"Long after Rhode Islanders serve their time in prison, many are saddled with thousands of dollars in court fees and fines, even as they struggle to rebuild fractured lives... On Thursday, Nov. 18, a first-of-its kind event will take place to help people navigate their way back into society."
R.I. can no longer overlook nonprofit sector
The Boston Globe
"The pandemic has highlighted the essential, irreplaceable roles played by Rhode Island's nonprofit sector. And our state investments and attention to the sector needs to reflect that."
She ran from an abusive relationship. Now she’s homeless
The Boston Globe
"There's women out there that are making the strong, bold, and courageous move to leave their abuser. But then they do, and often are left homeless," said [Cortney] Nicolato, United Way of Rhode Island's president and CEO. "We need to be better as a state."
Family struggles to avoid homelessness
The Boston Globe
"'I never thought I'd be in this situation," said Donna Wood, a single working mom. 'But there's nothing in the state that protects anybody in the situation that I'm in [against] homelessness, even with my four children. Even with one who is incredibly disabled.'"
Should R.I. Spend $500M on Housing?
GoLocalProv
"Cortney Nicolato… United Way of Rhode Island['s CEO] and one of the coalition members calling for the spending[,] said... the lack of affordable housing is the most critical issue now facing the state... 'We are proposing $500M of [Rhode Island’s American Rescue Plan Act funds] be utilized for the building [and] maintaining [of] affordable housing here in our state.'"
United Way of R.I. awards $175K in grants
Providence Business News
United Way of Rhode Island has awarded $175K in grants to 12 nonprofit organizations for their work toward creating long-term change in [Providence's] Olneyville neighborhood... The investments were awarded from its Olneyville Community Fund, dedicated to improve services for residents in the neighborhood, enhance public spaces and increase the capacity of community-based organizations."
ARPA a payment on bills long overdue
The Providence Journal
"The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) isn’t unexpected good fortune. It’s a past bill that’s overdue after decades of underfunding our communities," shares United Way of Rhode Island's president and CEO, Cortney Nicolato. "It’s also an opportunity to get things right and position our state to thrive for generations to come."
Balancing Accountability & Empathy At Work
Forbes Nonprofit Council
"Striking a balance between accountability and empathy is crucial for creating a work environment where employees can thrive... Here, 13 members of Forbes Nonprofit Council, including United Way of Rhode Island's president and CEO, Cortney Nicolato, share their expert tips on maintaining accountability and empathy in the workplace."
MolinaCares donates $105K to RI nonprofits
Providence Business News
"United Way of Rhode Island received $50,000 from the MolinaCares Accord for its Nonprofit Innovation Lab, designed to promote innovation within nonprofits to create programs focused on housing, health equity and solutions to racial disparity."
CCRI Partners with United Way to Open 211 Satellite Office on Warwick Campus
Warwick, RI – [April 28, 2025] – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) has partnered with United Way of Rhode Island to establish a satellite 211 office on CCRI’s Warwick campus, expanding access to essential community resources for students. This collaboration underscores CCRI’s ongoing commitment to removing barriers to student success and ensuring students have the support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
United Way Accelerates $1.5 Million in Grant Payments to Support Rhode Island Nonprofits Amid Funding Uncertainty
Recognizing the urgency of the financial strain facing local nonprofits, United Way of Rhode Island is taking a major step to provide timely critical support to its funded partners. The organization has released more than $1.5 million in grant payments nearly three months ahead of schedule, delivering early disbursements to 41 nonprofits across the state.
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 […]
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.
Paola Fernandez Appointed Chair of United Way Board of Directors
United Way of Rhode Island has named a new chair of its board of directors, appointing Paola Fernandez to the volunteer leadership position. Fernandez is senior vice president, community development officer for Centreville Bank and succeeds Dolph Johnson, retired executive vice president and chief human resources officer of Hasbro, Inc., who recently completed his three-year term as chair.
United Way Hires Tiffany Reed as Chief Development Officer
United Way of Rhode Island has welcomed a new chief development officer (CDO) to its team. The organization today announced the hiring of Tiffany Reed, who officially began her new role on Sept. 5. Most recently, Reed served as CDO for Tufts Medicine after holding the position of vice president, development, at Tufts Medical Center.
United Way Announces $1.5M in Providence Equity Fund Grants
During a press conference on Wednesday, Aug. 14, United Way of Rhode Island and the City of Providence announced the recipient organizations of $1.5 million in funding from the Providence Equity Fund. In total, 15 organizations have been awarded grants to support strategies that promote racial and social equity, economic mobility, and educational opportunities for underserved populations in Providence.
United Way Hosting Equity Challenge
As part of United Way of Rhode Island’s ongoing commitment to and demonstration of diversity, equity, and inclusion, the organization is preparing to host its 2024 Equity Challenge. All Rhode Islanders, individuals, and families, as well as local businesses, organizations, and groups are invited to participate in the challenge, which is being offered at no […]
United Way Accepting Applications for Providence Equity Fund
In collaboration with the City of Providence and aligned with its mission to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders, United Way has issued a request for proposal (RFP) for the Providence Equity Fund grant program. Available funding is to support strategies that promote racial and social equity, economic mobility, and educational opportunities for underserved populations in Providence.
United Way Selects Leaders for Executive Director Learning Circle
Laser-focused on its work to support the needs of the state’s nonprofit community… United Way of Rhode Island has kicked off its latest Executive Director Learning Circle. The organization has selected 11 local nonprofit leaders to participate in the yearlong program that focuses on strategic development and increasing their organizations’ capacity to deliver their social impact work.