Clear thinking, practical tools, and everyday actions that move teams forward.
Everyday Equity is a practical, human-centered video series designed to make equity, bias, and inclusion understandable, relatable, and actionable in everyday work life.
This series exists to help individuals and teams:
Build fair systems that support people without favoritism.
Strengthen collaboration, trust, and everyday performance.
Create workplaces where people can contribute and succeed.
Everyday Equity is not about blame, politics, or “getting it perfect.” It’s about awareness, curiosity, and progress. By focusing on practical behaviors—how we hire, meet, listen, give feedback, and make decisions—the series shows that equity isn’t an abstract ideal. It’s a daily practice.
the everyday equity video series
more from the series
Episode 1: Equity vs. Equality: Why Your Coffee Order Explains It All
Equality gives everyone the same latte with whole milk, but equity gives you almond milk if you're lactose intolerant. Learn how to apply the equity lens by asking "Are we giving everyone the same thing, or what they actually need?"
Episode 2: Why Equity Matters in Everyday Work Life
Running a marathon is fair when everyone starts at the same line—but equity removes the hurdles from some runners' lanes so everyone has a fair shot. Discover how equity in hiring, promotions, and team morale isn't charity—it's strategy that drives retention, innovation, and profits.
Episode 3: One Question to Check Your Bias Before Your Next Meeting
Ask "Who's missing from this conversation?" before every meeting to catch your blind spots. Add one person who brings a different perspective to break the pattern of inviting the usual suspects.
Episode 4: Understanding Bias Without Shame: We All Have It
Bias is like your phone's autocorrect—it's trying to help with shortcuts, but sometimes gets it hilariously wrong. Learn to manage bias with interrupters like structured interviews and pausing before decisions, because bias isn't a character flaw—it's a brain feature.
Episode 5: 3 Words to Avoid for More Inclusive Language
Swap "you guys" for "team" or "everyone," replace "ladies" with names or "folks," and ditch "crazy" for "unexpected" or "unusual." Small language changes are like seasoning—get it right and everyone's happy.
Episode 6: Inclusive Meetings: Practical Steps for Leaders
Stop meetings where two people dominate while everyone else prays for lunchtime. Share agendas early, use round-robin or chat features for quieter voices, and summarize decisions afterward to make meetings smarter, not just nicer.
More than farming, Southside Community Land Trust is a lifeline for RI families: Commentary
According to The Economic Progress Institute, it costs a single-parent family in Rhode Island $83,239 a year to raise two children. A two-parent household needs $92,375. Even a single adult must […]
It’s time to broaden view of what nonprofits really are. Hope & Main shows how
I’ve spent the majority of my life immersed in the nonprofit sector, and one of the most common misconceptions is that they’re often placed beneath a “social services” umbrella. That […]
Volunteers Needed for “Day of Action” on June 7 to Help Prepare Donated Books for Distribution to Local Children
Providence, R.I. (May 27, 2025) – United Way of Rhode Island’s annual “Day of Action” is quickly approaching, and the organization is looking for additional volunteers to help prepare thousands […]
United Way Hosts 14th 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.
Amid Rising Energy Costs, RI Good Neighbor Energy Fund Expands Eligibility to Help More Rhode Islanders
Through May 9, households may qualify for assistance with income up to 350% of the FPL
Just Two Weeks Left for Nonprofits to Sign-up for 401Gives
More than 520 organizations have already registered for this year’s effort, which kicks off
bright and early on March 31 and continues through April 1
UPCOMING EVENTS
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United Way kicks off Children’s Book Drive
Cranston Herald
"In what's become one of the state's largest efforts in support of childhood literacy, United Way of Rhode Island and its Women United group have kicked off their annual Children's Book Drive. Throughout the month of May, local businesses, community organizations, families and individuals are invited to participate in any one of a number of ways."
Lawmakers share changes to child tax credit
NBC 10 News
"United Way and members of Rhode Island's congressional delegation spoke Monday about the expanded federal child tax credit. The lawmakers explained how... families can take advantage of the benefits before filing their taxes by the May 17 deadline… [Representative David] Cicilline said an estimated 173,000 Rhode Island children will benefit directly."
Take advantage: Expanded Child Tax Credit
Uprise RI
"'The expanded Child Tax Credit will lift millions of kids out of poverty, including 6,600… in [R.I.]', said… Representative David Cicilline… 'It's critical that… eligible Rhode Islander[s] [take] advantage'... 'If you need help with your taxes… call 211 and we['ll] connect you with assistance in your community'", shared Larry Warner, United Way of Rhode Island's chief impact and equity officer.
FabNewport, Lucy’s Hearth receive grants
What's Up Newp
"United Way of Rhode Island… announced that it is putting $4.5 million in grants to work in the community to create transformational change in the Ocean State… On Aquidneck Island, FabNewport and Lucy's Hearth each received grants, which are part of United Way's commitment to invest $100 million over the next 5 years to build racial equity in Rhode Island."
PBN announces 2021 Best Places to Work
Providence Business News
"Seventy-two honorees — including United Way of Rhode Island — have been named by Providence Business News for its 2021 Best Places to Work Awards program... The honorees will be recognized June 9 for their efforts in a virtual ceremony, where the company rankings in each category will be announced."
Who’s Hot and Who’s Not? – $4.5M in Grants
GoLocalProv
On Wednesday, April 28, United Way of Rhode Island announced $4.5M in grants to the community. "The funding… was awarded to 72 organizations in support of programs targeting the root causes of the racial inequities that have held back Rhode Island's Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities for generations."
Nicolato brings “bold energy” to United Way
Providence Business News
"The past year has been difficult for most, but under... [the leadership of president and] CEO Cortney Nicolato... United Way of Rhode Island's community support never wavered... 'She brought such a bold energy to this organization,' United Way['s chief resource and engagement officer] Brooke Havens said… 'She has been extremely empowering to our organization and we’ve gained some amazing momentum.'"
Warner Outlines United Way Award of $4.5M
GoLocalProv
"Three months after unveiling its LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan, United Way of Rhode Island is announcing the first of the grants — $4.5M... Larry Warner — United Way’s chief impact and equity officer — joined GoLocal LIVE to discuss the selection process and the impact of the grants on the community."
United Way of RI awarding $4.5M
WPRI
"United Way of Rhode Island announced Wednesday they are awarding $4.5M in grants aimed at building racial equity. The grants align with the organization's LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan, which they say is a commitment to invest $100 million over the next five years."
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United Way Hosts 14th Children’s Book Drive
United Way of Rhode Island Hosts 14th Children's Book Drive in April and May
Rhode Islanders invited to support the effort that's put 390,000 books in the hands of children statewide
United Way of Rhode Island's Children's Book Drive is returning for its fourteenth 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 2026 Frequently Asked Questions below.
What is the Children's Book Drive?
The Children's Book Drive is a collaborative effort between United Way of Rhode Island and Books Are Wings to engage local businesses, community organizations, individuals, and families in fostering a love of reading, while encouraging children to build their own libraries at home.
This will be our fourteenth year collecting books. Over the past eleven years, we've put 390,000 books into the hands of children statewide.
When is the Children's Book Drive?
This year's Book Drive will take place in April and May, ending just in time for summer learning. Individual collections can run for any length of time during April and May - a few days, a few weeks, or an entire month.
Why is the Children's Book Drive important?
Children who are not proficient in reading by the end of third grade are four times less likely to graduate from high school than proficient readers, profoundly affecting their future earnings.
Rhode Island Comprehensive Assessment System (RICAS) 2023-2024 Grade 3 data reported that only 30% of all students met or exceeded expectations in Reading skills. Among students from under-resourced households, it was 17%. By race, 44% of white students, 18% of Black students, 17% of Hispanic students, and 12% of Native American students met or exceeded expectations.
Source: RIDE, www3.ride.ri.gov/ADP#
Children in under-resourced families have fewer reading materials and for many, there are zero books in the home. Early access to books is critical to successful reading development and summer reading can help close the reading achievement gap.
Book Pickup Day
Book Pick-Up Day is scheduled for Wednesday, May 27, 2026. We will pick up your books when your drive ends. Let us know how many books you've collected, and we'll schedule a pick-up time. Contact bookdrive@unitedwayri.
What is United Way's Day of Action? Can I volunteer?
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 6, 2026, at from 10am to 2pm at Waterfire Arts Center located at 475 Valley Street, Providence sort, label, and prepare the books for distribution to children in summer learning and afterschool programs. Contact volunteer@unitedwayri.org to volunteer.
Collection Sites
RHODE ISLAND
Statewide
- Centreville Bank - all branches
- Washington Trust - all branches
- Coastal1 - All Branches
- Shaw's - All RI stores
- Westerly Community Credit Union - all branches
East Providence
- East Providence Public Library, 41 Grove Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914
- Providence City Hall, 25 Dorrance Street, Providence, RI 02903
Pawtucket
- Books Are Wings, 1005 Main Street #711B, Pawtucket, RI 02860.
Providence
- United Way of Rhode Island, 50 Valley Street, Providence, RI 02909; Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until May 21
Warwick
- Cardi's Furniture & Mattresses, 1681 Quaker Lane, West Warwick, RI 02893
MASSACHUSETTS
- Cardi's Furniture & Mattresses, 999 Newport Avenue South, Attleboro, MA 02703
- Cardi's Furniture & Mattresses, 1 Furniture Way, Swansea, MA 02777
What types of books are needed?
New and gently used books for children - from babies to Grade 5 - are welcome. We are NOT able to accept books for adults, reference books, textbooks, workbooks, cookbooks, discarded library books, or mildewed/damaged books.
Buy and ship
Companies can give employees the option to order books through Amazon or a local bookstore. Employees can choose one of their favorite books or order from https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/JVEDY9GD1PG1/ref=hz_ls_biz_ex and have them shipped directly to us.
What should I collect books in?
Copy paper boxes with lids are ideal - they're eco-friendly, free, and stackable for easy storage.
Where are the books going?
Books will be distributed at Books Are Wings programs and summer partner sites. To learn more about United Way's education priorities, please visit www.unitedwayri.org.
How can I promote my drive?
We have customizable posters and FAQs for posting, sharing, and decorating your collection boxes. To register and obtain the materials, contact bookdrive@unitedwayri.org.
Amid Rising Energy Costs, RI Good Neighbor Energy Fund Expands Eligibility to Help More Rhode Islanders
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (March 11, 2026) – In response to the sudden, sharp increase in energy costs, the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF) is temporarily expanding eligibility guidelines to help more local households feeling the financial strain. Through May 9, households may qualify for GNEF assistance with income up to 350% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), an increase over the traditional 300% threshold.
For a household of two, this expansion means they may be eligible with an annual income up to $75,740 (previously $64,920), while a family of four may qualify with income up to $115,500 (previously $99,000). All other GNEF program rules remain the same; only income limits have changed.
The GNEF is a safety net for Rhode Islanders who do not qualify for federal and state assistance programs such as LIHEAP, but who find themselves in a situation where they need help to heat their home. Eligibility is based on household size and total household income.
Assistance to households are determined by fuel type, including electricity, natural gas, oil, propane, wood/wood byproducts, and kerosene, and can provide one-time help of up to $825 per heating season.
“We have seen a dramatic increase in calls to 211 from Rhode Islanders who suddenly find themselves in financial crisis as a result of skyrocketing prices of oil and home energy, this expansion is something we needed to do now,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way of RI’s president and CEO. “Far too many of our neighbors were already living paycheck to paycheck and these higher costs are pushing them to the brink.”
Rhode Island households in need of home heating assistance due to a financial struggle should call United Way’s 211 helpline if they have general questions, want to determine eligibility, or to connect with their local Community Action Program (CAP) agency.
Just Two Weeks Left for Nonprofits to Sign-up for 401Gives
Providence, R.I. (March 4, 2026) – Time is running out for Rhode Island nonprofits to register to
participate in this year’s 401Gives and raise funds in support of their work. Already, 524 local
organizations are signed up to be a part of the state’s largest philanthropic initiative supporting the
nonprofit sector. Nonprofits have until Friday, March 20 to register online at 401Gives.org.
This year’s 401Gives, the 7 th annual, will kick off early on Tuesday, March 31. The move from the effort’s
traditional April 1 start date is to honor Passover. Members of the community will be able to continue
giving until 6 p.m. on April 1.
“There’s a lot of excitement building among nonprofits for 401Gives, it’s become a significant source
of support for organizations, and those donations are more critical than ever in the face of constant
funding uncertainties,” said Caitlynn Douglas, operations manager, Alliance for Nonprofit Impact and
401Gives. “We set a new high last year for the number of nonprofits to benefit from 401Gives and
we’re outpacing that mark with a couple of weeks still to go.”
It is easy for nonprofits to participate in 401Gives and for individuals to donate to them. The effort
utilizes an online fundraising platform and leverages the power of social media and peer-to-peer
outreach. It is powered by the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact and in partnership with United Way of RI.
After registering, nonprofits can begin customizing their individual 401Gives page. Each page features
the ability to add images, embed video, and more. Nonprofits also benefit from an online library of
webinars and training videos, and a Nonprofit Toolkit with sample emails, social media tips, and
downloadable graphics. Additionally, the Alliance will offer virtual office hours to further support the
401Gives experience for nonprofits.
Since launching in 2020, 401Gives has raised more than $18 million for Rhode Island nonprofits. In
2025, it reached new heights, raising $4.9 million and inspiring more than 31,000 donations to 644
different organizations.
For questions or to learn more about 401Gives, email Caitlynn Douglas at 401Gives@unitedwayri.org.
Rhode Islanders Affected by Latest Changes to SNAP Benefits Should Call United Way’s 211
Upwards of 10,000 Rhode Islanders are expected to be impacted by changes set to take effect on March 1, 2026, including thousands projected to lose eligibility entirely
Providence, R.I. (February 24, 2026) – A new wave of changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are expected to take effect on March 1, 2026, and thousands of Rhode Islanders will feel the impact, particularly residents of the state’s immigrant and refugee communities.
Rhode Islanders who experience changes with their SNAP benefits, have questions about the anticipated changes, or who need information or referrals for food assistance, are encouraged to call United Way’s 211. The helpline is free, confidential, available 24/7, 365, and in multiple languages.
The revisions to SNAP benefits include reducing eligibility based on immigration status. Under the changes, many non-citizens who were previously eligible, including refugees, asylees, and victims of trafficking, could lose access to SNAP benefits unless they qualify under narrower categories. This shift means that many lawfully present immigrants who rely on SNAP to put food on the table are at risk of losing that support.
According to The Economic Progress Institute (EPI), there are approximately 2,300 people in Rhode Island who are projected to lose eligibility entirely. In addition, there are some 11,000 U.S.-citizen children in Rhode Island who are enrolled in SNAP with a non-citizen parent or guardian. If the parent/guardian becomes ineligible with the new changes, the household benefit would drop significantly.
“The constant and ongoing attack on SNAP benefits is also an attack on our most vulnerable and underserved neighbors, including thousands who can legally call Rhode Island their home,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “These changes, and others, will worsen food insecurity and create hardship for local families at a time too many are already struggling.”
Get Ready Rhode Island Nonprofits, 401Gives is Back
Providence, R.I. (February 11, 2026) – With the return of 401Gives less than 60 days away, nonprofits
across Rhode Island looking to participate and raise funds to support their work are invited to register
today at 401Gives.org. This year’s 401Gives will kick-off bright and early on Tuesday, March 31. The
move from the effort’s traditional April 1 start date is to honor Passover. Community giving will take
place until 6 p.m. on April 1.
401Gives makes it easy for nonprofits to participate and for individuals to make donations to them.
The initiative utilizes an online fundraising platform and harnesses the power of social media and
peer-to-peer outreach. It is powered by the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact and in partnership with
United Way of RI. Already, more than 300 nonprofits have signed up for this year.
“We know how challenging the current environment is for our fellow nonprofits as they wrestle to
meet high community need while navigating constant funding uncertainties,” said Nancy Wolanski,
director of the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact at UWRI. “Participating in 401Gives helps nonprofits tell
their stories, highlight the impact of their work, and connect with Rhode Island donors who care about
their cause. And we’ve seen that connection lead to meaningful and significant financial support.”
After registering, nonprofits can begin customizing their individual 401Gives page. Each page features
the ability to add images, embed video, and more. Nonprofits also benefit from an online library of
webinars and training videos, and a Nonprofit Toolkit with sample emails, social media tips, and
downloadable graphics. Additionally, the Alliance will offer virtual office hours to further support the
401Gives experience for nonprofits. While the deadline to register is March 20, the Early Bird
registration rate ends February 14.
Since launching in 2020, 401Gives has become Rhode Island’s largest statewide philanthropic
initiative in support of local nonprofits. In 2025, the effort reached new heights, raising $4.9 million
and inspiring more than 31,000 donations to 644 different organizations.
For questions or to learn more about 401Gives, email Caitlynn Douglas at 401Gives@unitedwayri.org.
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United Way of Rhode Island is uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.
As a member of the world’s largest nonprofit network, we bring together individuals, business, nonprofit, community leaders and
government to tackle the root causes of inequity and achieve specific, measurable goals. Our programs include 211, the statewide
front door connecting Rhode Islanders with social services, resources, and vital programs. Both directly and through grants to
Eligible Rhode Islanders can have their Taxes Prepared and Filed for Free
Providence, R.I. (February 9, 2026) – With tax season underway, eligible Rhode Islanders can again have their federal and state income taxes prepared and filed for free through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Led by United Way and its partners, the program is available at more than 20 locations statewide and serves households that earned $69,000 or less last year.
VITA provides IRS-certified tax preparation services at no cost, helping working individuals and families avoid the expense of tax prep and filing fees while ensuring their returns are accurate and complete. The program also makes sure taxpayers receive the money they’re due in tax refunds and credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit, which can significantly reduce tax burden and increase refunds.
The VITA program is especially important this year as taxpayers prepare for upcoming IRS changes in 2026, including no longer issuing paper check refunds. The change requires taxpayers to have a bank account or another secure electronic option when they file. Many Rhode Island households are unbanked or underbanked, and taxpayers who do not plan ahead could experience delays receiving their refund. VITA sites can help navigate these changes for local taxpayers.
“For a lot of working families, every dollar matters, especially right now,” said Cortney Nicolato, president and CEO of United Way. “VITA helps people keep the money they’ve already earned and get their refunds back safely—without having to pay for tax services. At a time when rent, groceries, and utilities costs keep climbing, VITA puts real relief in the hands of Rhode Islanders and helps to stabilize and strengthen families.”
Eligibility for VITA is based on income and household size, with households needing to earn $69,000 or less annually to qualify for services. More than half of VITA sites offer assistance in both English and Spanish, and returns are filed electronically. Rhode Islanders with questions about eligibility, locations, or scheduling an appointment for tax preparation should call 211.
Last year, more than 22,000 federal and state returns were completed by VITA in Rhode Island, returning $24 million to working households by way of the refunds and tax credits they were due, and in saved tax preparation and filing fees.
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United Way of Rhode Island is uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders. As a member of the world’s largest nonprofit network, we bring together individuals, business, nonprofit, community leaders and government to tackle the root causes of inequity and achieve specific, measurable goals. Our programs include 211, the statewide front door connecting Rhode Islanders with social services, resources, and vital programs. Both directly and through grants to nonprofits, we are investing to build economic opportunity, advance childhood learning, expand philanthropy, and to drive policy and participation. To learn more, visit unitedwayri.org, or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram.
Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund Sees Rising Demand for Heating Assistance as Winter Cold Deepens
Contact: Michael J. Cerio | Michael@CerioCommunications.com
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (February 4, 2026) – Lower temperatures, combined with prices that remain high for essentials like food and rent are driving increased need among local households struggling to afford home heating. As a result, more residents are turning to the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF) for assistance. In response, United Way of RI, which administers the Fund, is reminding households facing temporary financial crises that help is available, while also urging continued donations to the “Warm Thy Neighbor” campaign.
The GNEF is a safety net for Rhode Islanders who do not qualify for federal and state assistance programs such as LIHEAP, but who find themselves in a situation where they need help to heat their home. Eligibility for the GNEF is based on total household income not exceeding 300 percent of the federal poverty level. For example, a household of four is eligible to receive help if its annual income does not exceed $96,450. Assistance grants to households are determined by fuel type, including electricity, natural gas, oil, propane, wood/wood byproducts, and kerosene, and can provide up to $825 per heating season.
Any Rhode Island household in need of home heating assistance due to financial struggles is encouraged to call United Way’s 211 helpline with general questions about the Fund, to determine eligibility, or to connect with their local Community Action Program (CAP) agency.
“Too many Rhode Islanders are struggling right now, and for a lot of households, the cost to heat their home is a significant pressure when an unexpected financial issue impacts an already tight budget,” says Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “The Good Neighbor Energy Fund exists for moments like this and we want to make sure our neighbors know that help is available.”
The GNEF is supported by its sponsors, Block Island Utility District, Clear River Electric & Water District, Ocean State Power, Petro Home Services, Rhode Island Energy, and RI State Energy Center, as well as the generosity of individuals, families, and local businesses.
Donations to the GNEF can be made using the yellow envelope found with Rhode Islanders’ utility bill, by scanning the QR code on the envelope, texting “WARM” to 91999 from a mobile phone, sending a check payable to “Good Neighbor Energy Fund” to RI GNEF, c/o United Way of RI, 50 Valley Street, Providence, RI 02909, or by visiting rhodeislandgoodneighbor.org.
Since its inception, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund has helped nearly 50,000 Rhode Island households.
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About Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund
Since its establishment in 1986, the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund has raised more than $17.3 million and helped over 48,750 local households in need of energy assistance. For more information about the Good Neighbor Energy Fund or to receive assistance, contact either United Way of Rhode Island’s 211 helpline or a local Community Action Program (CAP) agency. RhodeIslandGoodNeighbor.org.
United Way of Rhode Island is uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders. As a member of the world’s largest nonprofit network, we bring together individuals, business, nonprofit, community leaders, and government to tackle the root causes of inequity and achieve specific, measurable goals. Our programs include 211, the statewide front door connecting Rhode Islanders with social services, resources, and vital programs. Both directly and through grants to nonprofits, we are investing to build economic opportunity, advance childhood learning, expand philanthropy, and to drive policy and participation. For more, visit unitedwayri.org, or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram.
12 Nonprofit Leaders Selected for 2026 Executive Director Learning Circle
Program offered by the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact at United Way of Rhode Island
strengthens organizational capacity and sustainability
Providence, R.I. (January 20, 2026) – As Rhode Island nonprofits continue to navigate growing
community needs and an ever-changing funding landscape, strong, innovative leadership remains
essential to delivering vital programs and creating meaningful impact. To help equip nonprofit
executives with the tools, strategies, and resources they need, the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact at
United Way of RI has selected 12 local leaders for its 2026 Executive Director Learning Circle.
The year-long leadership development program brings together a select group of nonprofit leaders
from across the state whose organizations are advancing critical work in areas such as basic needs,
education, health, and community wellbeing. Through a blend of facilitated learning, peer exchange,
and individualized coaching, participants focus on strengthening organizational strategy and
increasing capacity to drive mission-centered results.
Created to support nonprofits with annual operating budgets of less than $1 million, the Executive
Director Learning Circle is a cornerstone of United Way and the Alliance’s work to build nonprofit
capacity and sustainability. Since 2017, more than 60 local leaders have completed the program.
Laureen Avery is the founder and director of Cumberland-based ExcEL Educators Leadership
Academy, which provides professional learning for teachers to support high-quality, equitable
education for multilingual learners. Laureen recently retired from UCLA Center X, where she led
national efforts to support public school educators serving marginalized and underserved students.
She holds an M.S. degree in Educational Psychology from Rhode Island College and lives in Scituate.
Christina Bevilacqua is the executive director of LitArts RI, a nonprofit that strengthens Rhode
Island’s arts community by supporting creative writers and engaging readers. A longtime cultural
curator, she has led programs at organizations including the Providence Athenaeum, Providence
Public Library, and Trinity Repertory Company, and is a resident of Providence.
Shawndell Burney-Speaks is the interim executive director of the John Hope Settlement House in
Providence, a historic Black-serving organization with a 96-year legacy. Drawing on her lived
experience, she brings a deep understanding of the daily struggles facing her community and is
passionate about coaching as a tool for empowerment; she is a resident of Providence.
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Uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.
50 Valley Street. Providence, Rhode Island 02909 | (401) 444-0600 | unitedwayri.orgLindsay Cutler is the new executive director of Newport Partnership for Families, where she brings a
decade of experience improving access to housing, health, and supportive services for vulnerable
populations. Previously, she managed community programs for the Rhode Island Coalition to End
Homelessness, guiding statewide initiatives to strengthen the homeless response system..
As founder, president, and executive director of Save One Soul Animal Rescue League, Emma Dawley
leads the Wakefield-based dog rescue that has rehomed more than 5,000 dogs and helped countless
others live their best lives. Before founding SOSARL, she worked as an environmental consultant and
planner, supporting sustainable development and environmental initiatives. She lives in Wakefield.
The first executive director of The Village for RI Foster and Adoptive Families, Shannon Dos Santos
brings both professional expertise and lived experience to supporting foster, adoptive, guardianship,
and kinship families across the state. Her work includes partnering with the Rhode Island Department
of Children, Youth and Families to coordinate support services and elevate caregiver voices.
Liz Duggan is the founder of Amenity Aid, one of the nation’s largest hygiene banks, providing
essential hygiene products to nearly 126,000 individuals annually across Rhode Island. Under her
leadership, the organization has grown from a grassroots effort into a statewide operation. Liz holds
an MBA from California State University, is a Leadership Rhode Island graduate, and lives in Warwick.
With more than two decades of experience in nursing and education, Ada Ezeama is the founder and
executive director of RI Allied Health & Safety Institute. The nonprofit postsecondary healthcare
workforce training school focuses on preparing individuals for careers in healthcare., and mentoring
and developing future healthcare professionals. Ada is a resident of Smithfield.
Stephen Fox leads the Contemporary Theater Company in Wakefield. The theater produces a
Mainstage Season, Rhode Island’s only Renaissance Faire, summer camps and other community
events, and Improv Festivals that draw performers and teachers from around the world. The longtime
theater artist earned his Master of Public Affairs degree from the University of Texas Austin before
returning to Wakefield in 2023.
Since joining the International House of Rhode Island in 2024, Heidi LaVine has worked to provide a
“home away from home” for the state’s internationally identifying community. She connects residents
with local resources, facilitates cross-cultural exchange, and supports newcomers as they settle into
life in New England. Heidi is a resident of Providence.
Rush Nicotera is the seventh executive director of Youth Pride Rhode Island and has over 25 years of
experience in grassroots organizing and nonprofit leadership. They have led efforts in comprehensive
sex education, social justice initiatives, and LGBTQ+ advocacy, and have been recognized by Advocate
Magazine and the Human Rights Campaign for their leadership and impact.
Leading DESIGNxRI, Rhode Island’s only nonprofit economic development organization dedicated
exclusively to the design sector, Islay Taylor brings more than 15 years of experience building
inclusive, community-driven creative programs. She previously served as associate director of The
Steel Yard and is a resident of Providence.
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Uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.
United Way of RI, AARP Expand Supports for Caregivers in the Ocean State
New 211 program strengthens resources for Rhode Island’s 206,000 family caregivers
Providence, R.I. (December 2, 2025) – United Way of RI, The Family Caregiver Alliance of RI, and AARP Rhode Island have expanded the Caregiver Support Program, making it easier for Rhode Islanders who care for adult loved ones to find trusted guidance and local resources with a single call to 211. Thanks to support from United Way Worldwide, Rhode Island is the 30th state to join this growing effort that blends AARP’s caregiving expertise with the local strength of 211 and the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC).
The Caregiver Support Program helps caregivers connect to essential services for themselves and their loved ones via the 211 helpline. It was designed to improve access to practical supports and make it easier to navigate the complex responsibilities that come with being a caregiver.
“Caregiving is one of the most important and challenging roles someone will ever take on,” said Cortney Nicolato, president and CEO, United Way of RI. “When you’re a caregiver, there is a real courage in picking up the phone and saying, ‘I need help.’ Half of the equation is asking, the other half is getting the right guidance. And that’s what this partnership is all about.”
An estimated 206,000 Rhode Islanders, about 40 percent of the state’s population, provide care for an older adult, or an adult or child with a disability. Many do not think of themselves as caregivers, and as a result, often miss out on vital supports that could ease emotional, financial, and physical strain.
For years, United Way of RI’s 211 and the ADRC have been a trusted source of information for Rhode Islanders while serving as the front door to a wide range of services and programs for all residents. The free, confidential helpline is available 24/7, 365, and in more than 180 languages. It provides callers a personal, human connection with a trained community resource specialist who takes the time to understand what they’re experiencing and connect them with local supports. Through the extended program, caregivers who call 211 can receive:
• Local referrals for transportation, food delivery, respite care and caregiver supports, veterans’ benefits, and more.
• Supports to address their own basic needs, like housing, employment, financial assistance, and emotional support.
• Access to AARP caregiving tools and guides across a range of specialized topics like home safety and navigating health systems.
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AARP and United Way Worldwide created the Caregiver Support Program to help address the top need among the country’s 63 million family caregivers: finding relevant caregiving resources and local support. Nationwide, the 211 network is the most comprehensive source of information about local resources in the country.
Rhode Islanders seeking caregiver support can call 211 at any time or visit 211RI.org for more information.
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Chris Sabitoni
Laborers' International Union of North America
"The mission of this strategic plan aligns with everything that our Union stands for. As in our motto, Justice, Honor & Strength for all individuals."
Nellie Gorbea
Secretary of State
"Our best policies are developed when we have a diversity of opinions and backgrounds around the decision making table. Racial equity and justice are essential for our success as a state."
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