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 […]
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
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
UPCOMING EVENTS
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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 earn nearly $40,000 just to meet the basics. With costs this high, families are forced to make impossible choices – often between housing, utilities and food, let alone nutritious, wholesome food.
This burden falls hardest on communities already impacted by systemic inequities – particularly Black, Indigenous, immigrant, elderly and low-income families living in food deserts. In these neighborhoods, access to fresh, affordable and culturally appropriate food is limited or nonexistent. Neighborhood bodegas, while a community staple, offer a limited quantity of produce. Grocery stores and farmers markets are scarce. Too often, fast food is the only consistent option.
Behind every dollar cut in funding for a nonprofit such as Southside Community Land Trust (SCLT) is a story: A farmer and a community will suffer the repercussions of not having enough food on their table. And in the case of the recent funding loss to SCLT, they are cutting the roots of a deeply connected, community-grown food system.
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 narrow view couldn’t be further from the truth.
When nonprofits are seen only as organizations that address basic needs, it’s a limited perception that overlooks their far-reaching influence. They are the heartbeat of our communities, enhancing and influencing our daily lives in ways many do not even notice.
Nonprofits can be found everywhere – from youth sports leagues and museums to community gardens, arts foundations and public media. Your niece’s town soccer team? They’re part of a nonprofit. Enjoying a WaterFire lighting, hiking at a preserve or watching PBS on a quiet evening? Those experiences are made possible by nonprofits as well. They’re also economic engines, civic leaders and innovation hubs. Sometimes, they’re all of those things at once.
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 of donated books for distribution to local children. The event is one of United Way’s largest volunteer-driven initiatives of the year to improve childhood literacy.
“Day of Action” will take place on Saturday, June 7, at United Way’s 50 Valley Street headquarters in Providence, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It is a fun, family-friendly event and provides a great opportunity for individuals needing community service hours for school or professional development.
During “Day of Action,” volunteers will help with sorting, labeling, and packaging thousands of books collected during United Way’s recent Children’s Book Drive in partnership with Books Are Wings, whose mission is to put free books in the hands of kids. Thanks to the drive’s many partners, community drop-off locations, and collections organized by businesses, schools, and other groups, the effort has thus far collected more than 10,000 books.
Once the books are ready for their new homes, Books Are Wings will distribute them to children across Rhode Island through summer learning and afterschool programs.
Volunteers on “Day of Action” will receive United Way “UNITED IS THE WAY” t-shirts and refreshments, including a pizza lunch at 12:15 p.m. Families and children are welcome and encouraged to participate; those aged 16 and under must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
If you would like to volunteer, or if you have questions, please contact Lori DiMatteo at Lori.DiMatteo@unitedwayri.org. Volunteers may also us this link to register.
Over the past decade, United Way’s Children’s Book Drive has provided more than 300,000 books to kids throughout the Ocean State.
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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.
United Way of Rhode Island Statement on the House Budget Cuts
United is the Way— and that means standing up for every Rhode Islander.
At United Way of Rhode Island, we believe budgets are moral documents — they reveal what we truly value. The budget passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on May 22 fails that test.
This federal budget proposal would devastate communities across our state. It includes sweeping cuts to programs that tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders rely on — putting healthcare, food assistance, housing, education, and veterans’ services at risk.
Slashing Medicaid funding and adding harsh work requirements would jeopardize care for more than 366,000 Rhode Islanders — including older adults, people with disabilities, and veterans who’ve earned better. Cuts to SNAP would force families to choose between food and rent. And new restrictions on services for homeless students and immigrant families betray our most basic commitments to dignity and fairness.
Every day, through 211, we hear the real stories behind the headlines — Rhode Islanders struggling to afford food, find housing, or access healthcare — and we’re here, answering the call, connecting them to the help they need.
By gutting funding for clean energy, stripping environmental protections, and attacking safety net services, this bill tears at the very foundation of strong communities.
Rhode Island should never be punished for choosing compassion — for expanding healthcare access, investing in sustainability, and protecting our neighbors. This isn’t just bad policy. It’s a betrayal of what we stand for.
Rhode Island deserves a budget that builds people up — not one that tears them down in the name of tax cuts.
It is critical that we advocate for the needs of our residents and take action that shows
United Is The Way. Because fairness and dignity, is critical to create a Rhode Island where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
📞 Call your U.S. Senators today and tell them you stand with them in standing up for the people of Rhode Island.
Senator Jack Reed: (401) 943-3100 https://www.reed.senate.gov/contact
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse: (401) 453- 5294 https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/contact/
Contact Jack | U.S. Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island
The Official U.S. Senate website of Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island
Statement from United Way of Rhode Island on the Election of Senate President Valarie Lawson
United Way of Rhode Island congratulates Senator Valarie Lawson on her election as Senate President. As an educator, labor leader, and dedicated public servant, President Lawson brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to equity, opportunity, and community engagement.
United Way to Release RFP Friday for “United Is The Way” Safety Net Grants for Nonprofits Providing Critical Services to Rhode Islanders
With a priority to expand support for nonprofits and families amid growing federal uncertainty, United Way of Rhode Island is set to release a request for proposals (RFP) on Friday for new safety net grants through its “United Is The Way” initiative. (more…)
United Way: 211, Point programs save R.I. $1.2M in reduced nonemergency 911 calls
United Way of Rhode Island Inc.’s 211 and Point programs significantly reduced the state’s financial burden on nonemergency calls to 911 and to other state agencies in 2024, the organization said on Feb. 11 at the Statehouse. (more…)
United Way is Increasing Support of Nonprofits and Families Amid Federal Uncertainty, New Safety Net Grants Will be Made Available
“United Is The Way” will focus on expanding the services and supports available to local organizations and Rhode Islanders, and a special round of funding for nonprofit. (more…)
Rhode Islanders Connect 200,000+ times with United Way 211 and Point, Program Generated Significant Economic Benefit and Savings to State in 2024
For every dollar invested in the public service that’s free and available 24/7, 365, the return on investment to Rhode Island is $7.50
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United Way of R.I. Issues Request for Proposals, Makes $2M Available in Grants
United Way of R.I. Issues Request for Proposals, Makes $2M Available in Grants
Latest funding cycle is part of organization’s ongoing commitment to support local nonprofits addressing systemic inequity and working to create a more equitable Rhode Island
Providence, R.I. (December 3, 2020) United Way of Rhode Island has released a request for proposals (RFP), making available $2 million in grants from its Community Impact Fund. The funding is part of the organization’s commitment over the next five years to further increase support of nonprofits addressing systemic inequity and working to create a more equitable Rhode Island.
Interested organizations must submit a Letter of Intent by Dec. 17, 2020, with selected applicants invited to submit a full proposal due Feb. 3, 2021. The application process is available via United Way’s online portal.
“These funds align our community investments with our LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan and commitment to targeting the root causes of the racial inequalities that have plagued our state for far too long,” said Cortney Nicolato, president and CEO of United Way. “In order for Rhode Island to thrive in the post-COVID world, we must go deep, rather than wide to dismantle the barriers that hold back our neighbors.”
The $2 million available through this RFP – which represents a portion of United Way’s expected $4 million in grantmaking during the coming year – offers both programmatic and operational support to nonprofits addressing the goals in its strategic plan. The pillars of the plan and the leading priorities for this funding opportunity are:
- Achieve United: early childhood literacy; out-of-school time learning programs
- Advocate United: state and municipal policy and advocacy; research
- Lift United: housing; workforce development; adult education
- Invest United: nonprofit capacity building; resilience; diversity
United Way staff will hold virtual information sessions on Friday, Dec. 4 at 12:00 p.m. and Monday, Dec. 7 at 3:30 p.m., including an overview and walkthrough of the application and review process, and Q&A. Registration is available online.
Additionally, United Way will hold a series of virtual office hours via Zoom throughout December. Sessions will feature group and one-on-one discussions. A schedule and registration form can be found online.
This grant period will begin March 2021 and end Feb. 2023. Up to $75,000 is available for individual programs; up to $50,000 is offered in general support grants. A subsequent three-year grant opportunity will be announced in 2022, taking into account evolving community needs over the next two years.
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United Way of Rhode Island is changing lives and strengthening our communities by investing in proven
programs that work over the short-term, and are scalable over the long-term. www.LIVEUNITEDri.org
Man Up, Inc. Wins Nonprofit Innovation Lab Pitch Finals, Secures $50,000 in Seed Funding to Implement Unique Community Solution
Man Up, Inc. Wins Nonprofit Innovation Lab Pitch Finals, Secures $50,000 in Seed Funding to Implement Unique Community Solution
Program of United Way and Social Enterprise Greenhouse culminated in virtual “Shark Tank-like” event
Providence, R.I. (November 17, 2020): Out of a pool of 5 finalists, Man Up, Inc. took home the grand prize of the Nonprofit Innovation Lab’s pitch finals on November 12, securing $50,000 in seed funding to support the creation of new economic development opportunities for previously incarcerated men of color. Finishing second and receiving $25,000 was College Crusade of RI, with Genesis Center placing third and awarded $15,000
“The Nonprofit Innovation Lab breathed new life into my idea and helped me tap into my strengths and remain focused on the underrepresented men Man Up supports,” said Rhonda Price, the organization’s CEO and Founder. “The support I received toward my pursuit for social justice took my passion to a whole new level, guiding me from ideas to action. I can’t express enough my appreciation and respect for everyone who made this all possible.
A joint program of United Way of Rhode Island and Social Enterprise Greenhouse, and a first-of-its-kind in the Ocean State, the Nonprofit Innovation Lab offered 10 nonprofits the chance to transform their ideas into reality to address community needs and create positive social impact. The initiative consisted of three components and relied on entrepreneurial thinking and a social enterprise curriculum, and the critical resources of coaching, access to networks and capital needed to bring ideas to life.
“This was a tremendous learning experience for everyone involved and a unique way to hone new ideas that tackle issues that have persisted for far too long,” said Cortney Nicolato, President and CEO of United Way. “We feel strongly that this model can help our state to move forward. And while there is a winning pitch, the fact is everyone has come out of this program with invaluable knowledge and a collective of projects that carry a lot of potential.”
The months-long effort culminated in a virtual “Shark Tank-like” event, where Fuerza Laboral and House of Hope CDC also made compelling pitches, with each receiving $2,500 in funding. The finalists were determined in October during a digital selection round in which Rhode Islanders were invited to watch videos and vote for their favorite idea. During its winning pitch, Man Up, Inc. detailed how establishing a commercial indoor hydroponic vegetable business will create emerging jobs and economic development opportunities for previously incarcerated men of color. The new business would also provide the
organization with financial sustainability to further its work to ensure equal opportunity and prosperity for those who too often face societal barriers to advancing their lives.
“It has been an honor to work with all ten NIPL fellows over the last several months. Their innovative ideas, coupled with passion and commitment are exactly what are needed to address some of our state's most pressing social challenges,” said Kelly Ramirez, CEO of SEG. “We applaud their efforts and look forward to continuing to work together to ensure the fellows have the resources to execute on the innovations.”
Final pitches were evaluated by a panel of judges that included Angela Bannerman Ankoma (United Way), Michael Disandro (Wells Fargo), Ed Fitzpatrick (Boston Globe), Leland R. Merrill (BankNewport), Arnell Millhouse (Brown University), and Jill Pfitzenmayer (Rhode Island Foundation).
“The Nonprofit Innovation Lab pitch competition was awe-inspiring, with the very best of human-centered innovation designed to make the world a better place on full display,” said Arnell Millhouse, who served as a judge and is an Entrepreneur in Residence at Brown University. “I’m absolutely inspired by the entrepreneurs and their sustainable, mission driven ventures!”
The inaugural Nonprofit Innovation Lab has been generously supported by sponsors BankNewport and Wells Fargo.
“BankNewport is proud of its long history and partnership with United Way – it was an honor to serve as a judge for the final pitches and hear firsthand the innovative, outside the box ideas everyone brought to the table,” said Leland R. Merrill, EVP, Chief Operating Officer for BankNewport. “What was most impressive was how each organization not only honed their plan, but also emphasized the financial sustainability that will allow them to make the greatest impact. It’s exciting to see such energy around addressing important issues in new ways.”
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United Way of Rhode Island is changing lives and strengthening our communities by investing in proven programs that work over the short-term, and are scalable over the long-term. For more information, visit
www.LIVEUNITEDri.org.
Social Enterprise Greenhouse creates positive social and economic impact by providing social entrepreneurs and
enterprises with the tools and networks they need to thrive. We also foster an ecosystem of diverse stakeholders
who work to enable a more just, equitable and resilient economy. Social Enterprise Greenhouse operates
statewide in Rhode Island from three programming sites in Providence, Newport, and Pawtucket/Central Falls.
Our network of 600+ enterprises and 250+ business and community leaders contributes time, expertise, and
funding to grow Rhode Island’s social impact ecosystem. To learn more, visit www.segreenhouse.org.
Secretary Gorbea, United Way of R.I. Launch 2-1-1 Voter Information Hotline
"With Rhode Island’s September 8 primary and November 3 general election fast approaching, Secretary of State Nellie M. Gorbea today announced a partnership with Island to launch the state’s new 2-1-1 Voter Information Hotline."
United Way Sends $600,000 in ‘Rhode Island Recovers’ Grants to 41 Local Organizations to Support Continuity of Services
United Way Sends $600,000 in ‘Rhode Island Recovers’ Grants to 41 Local Organizations to Support Continuity of Services
Unrestricted funding supports general operating expenses to help nonprofits stay afloat
Providence, R.I. (August 20, 2020) Through a new funding program established to support nonprofits’ ability to continue their services to Rhode Islanders amid the COVID-19 crisis, United Way of Rhode Island (UWRI) has sent $600,000 in ‘Rhode Island Recovers’ grants to 41 local organizations.
Grants range from $5,000 to a maximum of $25,000 and are earmarked for general operating support. The funds were awarded to nonprofits for their work in the areas of housing, workforce development, financial stability, and expanded learning, and prioritized efforts that benefit communities of color. The grants cover the time period of July 1 to December 31, 2020.
Among the organizations to receive funding is Man Up, which was awarded $15,000. The minority-run nonprofit provides a range of unique workforce development and educational opportunities to adult men of color while addressing the social, financial and legal barriers that often hold them back. With the funding, Man Up was able to bring back two of its case managers to again operate at full strength.
“Our case managers are the backbone of our organization. We have young men who completed a 26 week oil/heat technician training program, passed their state oil burner license exam, and were ready to begin work when everything was shuttered,” said Rhonda Price, CEO and Founder of Man Up. “With businesses opening back up, there are jobs out there and it’s our case managers helping them get the work they were trained for. These are men who have worked hard to turn their lives around and we’re helping them create a sustainable future through career track training and employment.”
In making $600,000 available, UWRI’s ‘Rhode Island Recovers’ grant program is the largest in the state to issue a request for proposals in which one-hundred percent of an award may be used for unrestricted operating funds. In total, UWRI received 160 applications totaling more than $3.5 million in requests.
“This is trust-based philanthropy, where our goal as an organization was to ensure that smaller, and often younger, nonprofits could continue to function and maintain the services they provide to those most atrisk,” said Cortney Nicolato, UWRI’s President and CEO. “While our current environment has encouraged us to continue to look differently at how we do things, our shift to more equity-focused grantmaking began more than a year ago. Sometimes, not giving everyone the same thing makes the biggest impact.”
Tomaquag Museum, in Exeter, is another organization to receive a grant. The state’s only Indigenous museum recently reopened, having been closed March through July. During that time, it was forced to cancel more than 40 programs and events that would have brought a steady flow of schools, youth, adults and families – and revenue – through its doors.
“For COVID to happen when it did was simply devastating – the fact that this grant is unrestricted was an enormous piece to our reopening plan and expanding our virtual options,” said Lorén Spears, the museum’s Executive Director. “These funds allowed us to accommodate new strategies and technologies that we just could not plan for and, frankly, didn’t know we’d ever need. United Way’s funding gave us flexibility, which is so critical, especially now. Kutaptush. Thank you."
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United Way of Rhode Island is changing lives and strengthening our communities by investing in proven programs that work over the short-term, and are scalable over the long-term. For more information, visit www.LIVEUNITEDri.org.
Exceeding Goal, 401Gives Raises $1.2 Million for R.I. Nonprofits in Single Day
Exceeding Goal, 401Gives Raises $1.2 Million for R.I. Nonprofits in Single Day
Powered by United Way, April 1st becomes state’s largest day of giving in support of local organizations amidst unprecedented time of uncertainty and rising community need
Providence, R.I. (April 2, 2020) – In a sign of unity that will impact the lives of tens of thousands of their neighbors, Rhode Islanders came together to raise a total of $1,252,786 during the first-ever 401Gives campaign powered by United Way of Rhode Island (UWRI). The funds are the result of 7,338 donations made on Wednesday, April 1, 2020, to the nearly 400 organizations to participate in the effort. Contributions can still be made through April 3.
“We are beyond grateful for our community’s incredible generosity in support of the essential work of our state’s nonprofits – work that may be more vital now than ever before,” said Cortney Nicolato, President and CEO, UWRI. “In Rhode Island, we help each other and we have each other’s backs, and never has that been more evident than it was yesterday.”
UWRI created its new statewide giving campaign to lift up the Ocean State’s nonprofit community and to generate support for its work. 401Gives was conducted entirely using a unified online platform and via social media. Its planning and development began in mid-2019, with hundreds of local organizations signing on to take part in the day in the months that followed.
“When we announced 401Gives, none of us could have imagined today’s reality or the level of need we’re seeing among our neighbors. There isn’t a community or an organization not affected by the current health crisis,” added Nicolato.
Modeled after successful giving days in other parts of the country, 401Gives made it easy for nonprofits to share their stories and collect donations through GiveGab, a secure fundraising platform. UWRI made the tool available to participating nonprofits, not only for April 1, but also for the coming year to help each organization maximize what 401Gives has to offer. There are no fees to organizations.
401Gives was powered by UWRI and supported by some of the state’s leading businesses, such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield of RI and FM Global. The Rhode Island Foundation matched the first $50,000 raised on April 1, and an additional $40,000 was made available to nonprofits by way of random prize drawings thanks to the generosity of Brave River Solutions, Centreville Bank, Citrin Cooperman, Cox Communications, National Grid, Oak Street Health, Otraway, and Zennovation
Fund & Lorne Adrain.
The nonprofits to lead the way in fundraising were the Rhode Island Community Food Bank with $44,055, and Hope & Main with $41,600.
COVID-19 Response Fund awards $1.2 million in first round of grants to local nonprofits
COVID-19 Response Fund awards $1.2 million in first round of grants to local nonprofits
Providence, RI (March 27, 2020) – Less than two weeks after the Rhode Island Foundation and United Way of Rhode Island jointly established the COVID-19 Response Fund, the organizations today announced a first round of crisis response grants to local nonprofit organizations.
Twenty-seven organizations serving Rhode Islanders who are coping with the current health crisis will share a total of $1.2 million. Additional grants from the fund will continue to be awarded on a rolling basis. Qualifying nonprofit organizations may apply at rifoundation.org/covid19grants.
Among the organizations receiving grants are Adoption Rhode Island, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, Meals on Wheels of Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Free Clinic, Sojourner House, WARM Center, Lucy’s Hearth and the Pawtucket Soup Kitchen. (The full list of awardees and a brief description of what each grant will support is posted here.)
“Throughout the entire state, nonprofit organizations are stepping up to assist neighbors in need during this unprecedented and uncertain time. It’s truly heartening to see the response,” said Neil D. Steinberg, president and CEO of the Foundation. “We’re committed to getting this funding to where it is needed the most. Thanks to our generous donors, these grants will provide a safety net to support many Rhode Islanders. We also welcome more donations to the fund, so that we are able to continue to meet community need.”
Many of the grants awarded today will help local nonprofits provide basic needs to Rhode Islanders affected by the crisis. For example, funds will support food and personal care products, and assistance meeting household expenses. Additionally, funding was awarded to health centers, community centers and shelters as they face unprecedented challenges to maintain operations and deliver services to those most in need.
“We are hearing from the nonprofit community every day about the disruption to services caused by this pandemic. Being able to quickly support them, and Rhode Islanders with their most basic needs has the ability to not only provide comfort, but to save lives,” said United Way of Rhode Island President and CEO Cortney Nicolato. “As this health crisis will continue for some time, I am grateful for every donor who has stepped up so far, for the donations to come, and to every nonprofit employee who continues to show up, every day, to take care of our families and neighbors.”
Grantees will use the funding to provide direct service, as well as to quickly increase their capacity to deliver needed services, such as telehealth, remotely.
Together, the Foundation and United Way established the COVID-19 Response Fund on March 17 and have combined to raise more than $5.2 million in contributions.
Gifts to the fund, in any amount, can be made with the Foundation at rifoundation.org/covid19response or to United Way at uwri.org. Donations will be accepted as long as the need continues.
The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Working with generous and visionary donors, the Foundation raised $47 million and awarded a record $56 million in grants to organizations addressing the state’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities in 2019. Through leadership, fundraising and grant-making activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information, visit rifoundation.org.
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United Way of Rhode Island is changing lives and strengthening our communities by investing in proven
programs that work over the short-term, and are scalable over the long-term. For more information,
visit www.LIVEUNITEDri.org.
Calls to 2-1-1 for Help with Housing, Food, and Health Information Rose in 2019
Calls to 2-1-1 for Help with Housing, Food, and Health Information Rose in 2019
Providence, R.I. (February 11, 2020) New data released today by United Way of Rhode Island (UWRI) shows requests to its 2-1-1 call center for help with primary basic needs increased in 2019 compared to the previous year. The highest needs among Rhode Islanders who turned to 2-1-1 were housing, food, and health information.
“This report echoes what we heard during our recent community conversations with hundreds of Rhode Islanders; people are struggling with their basic needs,” said Cortney Nicolato, President and CEO, UWRI. “In particular, the jumps we’re seeing around housing are especially alarming – we have a housing crisis in our state that impacts nearly every aspect of our neighbors’ lives, our economy, and overall well-being.”
UWRI used February 11 to bring attention to 2-1-1 locally, the need to create the systems that give all Rhode Islanders the opportunity to succeed, and to release the call center’s latest report. Across the country, Feb. 11 is recognized at National 2-1-1 Day. UWRI brought the program to Rhode Island in 2007.
In 2019, Rhode Island 2-1-1 received a total of 170,860 calls – an average of 468 per day – with trained specialists uncovering multiple needs among each individual or family during calls. Specialists logged 87,187 requests related to housing, up 17 percent over last year. Needs of callers included seeking help and information on shelters, foreclosure prevention, rental assistance, accessing affordable housing, and more. Comparatively, 2-1-1 also made some 7,258 more referrals for help with food over 2018.
With regard to requests for referrals and information related to health care and health services, 2-1-1 saw its largest increase, jumping from 54,957 in 2018 to 94,813 last year. While a portion of the increase is attributed to 2-1-1 assisting a growing number of Rhode Islanders enroll in their annual Medicare plans, specialists also saw a rise in calls for help with prescriptions, elder care, and mental health supports.
Added Nicolato, “We can look at our data and the upward movement of calls for help with basic needs and say with confidence, that without significant change, the data points will only rise.”
Since its local inception, 2-1-1 has handled nearly 2 million calls, effectively changing the way Rhode Islanders access help by offering a direct human connection, 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, and in a wide range of languages. Seen as a national model, Rhode Island’s 2-1-1 has evolved to offer walk-in services, text and online chat capabilities, and became the first in the country to provide mobile, on-location services through a 2-1-1 outreach van. The service also plays an important, statewide role during storms and times of emergency through a partnership established with Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency.
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United Way of Rhode Island is changing lives and strengthening our communities by investing in proven programs that
work over the short-term, and are scalable over the long-term. For more information, visit www.LIVEUNITEDri.org.
United Way, Social Enterprise Greenhouse Select 10 Fellows for Nonprofit Innovation Lab
United Way, Social Enterprise Greenhouse Select 10 Fellows for Nonprofit Innovation Lab
Unique, six-month program to spark development of new solutions to pressing social issues culminates with “Shark Tank-like” presentation to secure funding to bring ideas to life
Providence, R.I. (January 13, 2020): Leaders from ten Rhode Island-based nonprofits have been selected as Fellows for a unique social innovation program created by United Way of Rhode Island (UWRI) and Social Enterprise Greenhouse. The cohort for the inaugural Nonprofit Innovation Lab was selected from a pool of two dozen applicants eager to address pressing social issues and who took part in a Quick Pitch selection event this past December.
Through the Nonprofit Innovation Lab, UWRI and SEG seek to spark the development of self-sustaining solutions that enable organizations to expand and accelerate their ability to create positive social impact. The effort leans on entrepreneurial thinking to identify new solutions to existing problems, utilizing a social impact curriculum and providing Fellows the critical resources – coaching, access to networks and capital – that they need to bring their ideas to life. The program culminates with a “Shark Tank-like” presentation in June, where Fellows will compete for $90,000 in seed funding.
The Fellows of the inaugural Nonprofit Innovation Lab and their respective organizations are:
- Mario Bueno, Progreso Latino
- Mike Chea, Dorcas International Institute of R.I.
- Kate Corwin, Smith Hill CDC
- Janice Falconer, Impact Rhode Island
- Raul Figueroa, Fuerza Laboral
- Dana Ginestet, College Crusade of Rhode Island
- Laura Jaworski, House of Hope CDC
- Jonathan Kabak, Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island
- Rhonda Price, Man Up, Inc.
- Joshua Riazi, Genesis Center
“Together with Social Enterprise Greenhouse, we were very impressed with the innovation and quality of every proposal – there is some incredible forward thinking coming out of our state’s nonprofit community,” said Cortney Nicolato, President and CEO of UWRI. “We are eager to help our Fellows hone their ideas to strengthen Rhode Island, and for every participant to bring back to their organization the knowledge and skills to take their work to the next level.”
Added Kelly Ramirez, CEO of SEG, “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with United Way to deliver the Nonprofit Innovation Lab. This ‘intrapreneurship’ accelerator aims to provide some of the state’s top social impact leaders time and space, networks, and resources to enable them to better innovate within their organizations. The ultimate goal is to ensure the best opportunities and services to Rhode Islanders.”
The Nonprofit Innovation Lab begins on January 13 and runs through June. It consists of three components:
- Boot Camp: 6-weeks of intensive expert instruction via two, 4-hour weekly sessions and online
curriculum to refine innovation plans and set milestone goals. - Milestone Accelerator: 16-weeks, during which Fellows connect and work with advisors throughout
United Way and SEG networks. - Innovation Pitch Event: in June, five Fellows present their final innovation plans to compete for
funding.
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United Way of Rhode Island is changing lives and strengthening our communities by investing in proven programs that work over the short-term, and are scalable over the long-term. For more information, visit www.LIVEUNITEDri.org.
Social Enterprise Greenhouse creates positive social and economic impacts across Rhode Island by supporting social entrepreneurs and enterprises with the business tools and networks they need to thrive. SEG operates statewide out of programming sites in Providence, Newport, and Pawtucket/Central Falls, and its network of 500+ enterprises and 300+ business and community leaders contributes time, expertise, and funding to grow Rhode Island’s social impact ecosystem. To learn more, visit www.segreenhouse.org.
Through Free Tax Preparation Service, United Way Helps Return More than $27 Million to the Pockets of Working Rhode Islanders
Through Free Tax Preparation Service, United Way Helps Return More than $27 Million to the Pockets of Working Rhode Islanders
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program allows eligible taxpayers to have their income tax returns completed and filed for free in order to receive the money they’re due in tax refunds and tax credits
Providence, R.I. (December 12, 2019) Thanks to United Way of Rhode Island (UWRI), more than $27 million was returned to the pockets of working Rhode Islanders this year through its management of the statewide Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) campaign.
It is the initiative’s largest single-year financial benefit for local, eligible taxpayers since UWRI’s involvement began in 2005, and represents the value of tax refunds and tax credits claimed, and the value of the tax preparation services provided to participating taxpayers.
“The results and reach of VITA, and the direct impact on Rhode Island families and our state’s economy, are truly remarkable,” said Cortney Nicolato, President and CEO of United Way of Rhode Island. “This is a program that benefits everyone, but more importantly, it helps our neighbors meet immediate needs.”
Led by UWRI and in partnership with Citizens Bank, VITA provides free tax preparation services to eligible Rhode Islanders who earn $55,000 or less annually. The goal of the effort is to ensure working taxpayers receive the money they’re due in tax refunds and tax credits, such as the EITC and Child Tax Credit, which reduce tax burden and can lead to a larger refund.
In 2019, UWRI and Citizens made VITA available at 24 program sites statewide, each staffed by IRS-trained and certified volunteers who offered services in multiple languages and filed returns electronically. In total, more than 21,000 individual income tax returns were completed and filed by volunteers in Rhode Island.
Together, United Way and Citizens Bank funded $221,380 to deliver the VITA initiative in the Ocean State in 2019, leveraging their investment more than one-hundred times over to benefit low- and moderate-income working Rhode Islanders.
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United Way of Rhode Island is changing lives and strengthening our communities by investing in proven programs that work over the short-term, and are scalable over the long-term. For more information, visit www.LIVEUNITEDri.org.
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Roberta Butler
Rhode Islander
"As a native Rhode Islander, my wish is that all my fellow citizens have access to affordable housing, education and jobs without distinction for their race, gender, ethnic origins or other factors. United Way of Rhode Island will help us lead the way!"
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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