NEWSROOM
How you can save money amidst Rhode Island Energy rate hike
ABC6
With rates rising starting Oct. 1, Rhode Islanders have many ways to save money and energy this fall... [For] anyone... need[ing]... financial assistance... United Way of Rhode Island’s 211 service may help... 'We’re here to help the community navigate resources,' said Courtney Smith, director of... 211... The service is available online at 211 United Way of Rhode Island or over the phone.
Program aims to reverse learning loss
WPRI
For 30 hours a week for six weeks, the Summer Learning Initiative gives students the opportunity to learn in fun and out-of-the-box ways... "There’s ways to be able to explore and be creative without feeling like they are falling farther and farther behind, which I think a lot of youth are feeling right now because of the pandemic," [Marlene] Guay said.
FCARI: Tips for Helping Children on the Autism Spectrum Adjust to a Move
When you have children on the autism spectrum, every aspect of your life is affected. Stability and routine are often the keys to keeping them safe and happy, as is prioritizing them by creating experiences together and letting them help with chores around the house. Moving to a new home poses a unique challenge. Every step of the process must take your children's special needs into consideration – which is much easier if you follow these tips from the Family Caregiver Alliance of Rhode Island.
Research Homes
Children on the autism spectrum often need detailed information to thrive, so the first step is gathering data about homes in your target area. Search listings to compare prices and interview several realtors to find the one who understands your needs. Research the surrounding neighborhoods to ensure they have the schools, therapy, and medical services your children require. Also, if a house has more space than you need, remember that an apartment is an option, too.
When you are selecting a home, keep in mind the changes you may need to make for your kids. For example, if you have a child who tends to wander off, reaching out to the Security Garage Door, Gate, and Fence to install an entry gate that blocks the path to the street may be necessary. According to autism experts at the Autism Society, there are many modifications you can make to address the unique sensory needs of your children.
Prepare Your Child
Once you have your plans in place, discuss them with your children. Younger kids can adjust to the news with a few weeks' notice, but teens may need to know months in advance, particularly if it is a long-distance move. Explain the timeline of the move, using visual schedules for clarity when appropriate. Give them time to ask questions and detail the specific tasks they will be responsible for throughout each phase of the process.
Maintain Order
Moving is often chaotic, but an uncertain environment isn't likely to work well for children on the autism spectrum. One of the biggest challenges you may face is accommodating their needs while packing for the move. To minimize stress, keep your home as free of clutter as possible. Ideally, most of the packing can be done in one day to lessen the disruption. If this is not feasible, designate clear spaces for different locations where packed boxes will be out of the way.
Professional cleaners can help you maintain a clean, clutter-free home. Spills are more frequent during moves, and an experienced upholstery cleaner can salvage your furniture quickly so that your children don't get overwhelmed by the mess. After comparing prices, reading reviews, and consulting former customers for specific feedback, you can meet with your top candidates to choose the cleaner you want. Avoid hiring cleaners who use all-in-one tools—you may not get the deep wash you need.
Clarify Moving Day Schedule
The Indiana Institute on Disability and Community notes that there are a lot of transitions on moving day, and they can be a challenge for children on the autism spectrum to navigate. Review the day's schedule first thing in the morning so that it is fresh on their minds. If they have their own specific tasks to complete throughout the process, it will probably go more smoothly.
Once you arrive at your new home, give your children time to adjust. Introduce them to each new space, both inside and outside. If they still have the energy to do so, take a family walk around the neighborhood after the basic things in their room are set up.
Moving can be tumultuous under the best circumstances. If you have children on the autism spectrum, there are other factors you have to consider. By planning ahead and keeping your children informed, you can make the move as calm as possible for them.
The Family Caregiver Alliance of Rhode Island advocates for and provides resources to meet the needs of caregivers who are providing long-term in-home care for family and friends, including children and youth with special needs, adults with disabilities, and the elderly. Connect with us today to find out more! maryam.attarpour@unitedwayri.org
This article was written by specialhomeeducator.com
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Summer energy bill assistance is available
The Westerly Sun
The Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund is open to all eligible Rhode Island households experiencing financial difficulty and [needing] assistance with energy expenses, even in the summer. The fund is sponsored by Rhode Island Energy, Block Island Utility District, Ocean State Power, Pascoag Utility District, Petro Home Services and RISEC LP and administered by United Way of Rhode Island.
10 Ways Nonprofits Can Influence Giving
Forbes Nonprofit Council
As nonprofits seek out donations, leveraging... win-win opportunities can be an effective way to further the social goals of the nonprofit and potential donors. Below, a panel of experts from Forbes Nonprofit Council, including Cortney Nicolato, United Way of Rhode Island's president and CEO, each share one... strategy nonprofit leaders can leverage to influence major corporations to support community-serving efforts.
Form Symbiotic Nonprofit Relationships
Forbes Nonprofit Council
"If not done carefully, a business relationship has the potential to hinder rather than help the work being done by both organizations. To prevent collaborations that hinder nonprofit work, 11 members of Forbes Nonprofit Council, including Cortney Nicolato, United Way of Rhode Island's president and CEO, share how nonprofit leaders can form mutually beneficial relationships with a partner or another organization."
Nonprofit Center Design Team Announced
GoLocalProv
"United Way of Rhode Island announced on Tuesday the... members of a 'Design Team' that will be tasked with co-creating a vision and plan for... a Nonprofit Resource Center... 'We had a strong application response, and [these] individuals particularly stood out for their collection of unique insights and commitment to collaboration,' said Cortney Nicolato, president and CEO of United Way."
401Gives raises $3.09M for 507 nonprofits
Providence Business News
"This year's 401Gives Day raised the bar, once again, in supporting the state's nonprofit sector. As of Monday afternoon, the annual online fundraising initiative raised $3.09M, breaking last year's record total by close to a million dollars. It also saw a record number of donors – 12,850 in total as of 2:15 p.m. Monday – and number of organizations supported at 507, exceeding last year's mark by 87."
Support youth literacy by donating books
The Rhode Show
"This morning on The Rhode Home we welcomed NIROPE – Ron & Pete Cardi – along with Lori DiMatteo, Coordinator of Volunteer Engagement for United Way of Rhode Island, and Jocelyn White, Executive Director of Books Are Wings. We learned about the upcoming [Children's] Book Drive starting in April, [hosted by United Way, Women United, and Books Are Wings]."
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.
401Gives Registration Is Open to All Rhode Island Nonprofits
401Gives is returning on Monday, April 1, and United Way of Rhode Island invites all local nonprofits to participate and raise funds to support their mission-driven work. This year’s 401Gives is the fifth anniversary of what is the Ocean State’s largest single fundraiser to benefit and uplift the nonprofit sector.
Rhode Islanders Can Find Help With Medicare Open Enrollment
United Way of Rhode Island is offering assistance to those age 65 and older and adults with disabilities who need help enrolling in or reviewing their Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans for 2024 coverage. The current open enrollment period ends on Dec. 7 and is the only time at which individuals can make changes.