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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Homes RI: Annual Celebration Honoree
Championing housing as a right, not a privilege
It's no secret that Rhode Island is in the midst of a housing crisis - one that began prior to COVID-19 and that's since reached epic proportions over the past 18 months. As it's estimated the Ocean State is short some 20,000+ units of affordable housing to meet the needs of families and individuals deemed housing insecure, one group in particular is leading the charge toward flipping the script.
And that is Homes RI, the recipient of our inaugural Community United Award, which honors the collective effort needed to make progress and create true change in our communities.
"I don't know that there's been a stronger driving force behind Rhode Island's need for more affordable housing than the coalition of organizations who've come together as Homes RI," says Cortney Nicolato, United Way of Rhode Island's president and CEO. "And that's huge, because there isn't an issue more pressing or more important to our state's ability to thrive than housing."
Since being established more than four years ago, Homes RI has realized victories around some of the coalition's largest priorities. Among them is the creation of a dedicated funding stream in the state budget for affordable housing production and the signing into law of the Fair Housing Practices Act, which prohibits source of income discrimination in Rhode Island. And earlier this year, their unified advocacy in support of the $65 million Housing and Community Opportunity Bond helped the measure pass by a wide margin, while the group has worked tirelessly on the eviction and foreclosure moratoriums and various other housing programs throughout the pandemic.
"For many generations, housing policies were rooted in systemic and institutional racism and keeping people out of communities," says Katie West of Housing Network of Rhode Island, and HomesRI manager. "We've worked hard to advance equity in housing, and much more work is needed. I look at this award not that we've achieved our goal, but as an invitation to keep making progress every day for more safe, healthy, and affordable homes."
Linda Katz: Annual Celebration Honoree
Rhode Island's voice for the voiceless
When someone receives an award named in honor of the revered, late U.S. Senator John Chafee as Linda Katz has this week, you know they're a powerhouse for good. Chafee, who is likely best known for his work in the Senate, was also a Marine, a Secretary of the Navy, and Rhode Island's 66th Governor.
During our 95th Annual Celebration on October 26, Linda, the policy director and co-founder of the Economic Progress Institute, added recipient of the John H. Chafee LIVE UNITED Award to her moniker.
The award honors a community-minded individual who's worked to make our state a better place through many years of dedication and action on behalf of Rhode Islanders. Like Chafee, Linda has helped to transform lives, focusing on issues that span education for all, affordable housing and homelessness, and workforce development.
"Any list that captures Rhode Island's most influential and difference-making advocates has to begin with Linda Katz," says Cortney Nicolato, United Way of Rhode Island's president and CEO. "For decades, she's taken the lead on legislative and policy analysis around issues that have improved the economic wellbeing of near countless local families."
A champion for social and economic justice, Linda was instrumental in moving Rhode Island's minimum wage from $10.10 per hour to $15 an hour, and increasing the Earned Income Tax Credit. Recently, she led a two-year campaign to raise benefits for families enrolled in the RI Works program, including allowing 18-year-old dependent children to continue eligibility for RI Works as long as they're in high school or getting a GED. In the area of healthcare access, she leads the Protect Our Healthcare Coalition, maintaining the position of dental insurance supports for low-income Rhode Islanders and holding the state to its commitment of a balanced healthcare system, regardless of what happens with the federal Affordable Care Act.
"I've been doing this work for a long time, and I do it because I love it," says Linda. "And while there has been success in helping very low-income families, there is still more for us to do."
George Nee: Annual Celebration Honoree
A lifetime dedicated to labor and community
It's been quite the ride for George Nee since he felt inspired to leave Boston College in 1969 to help organize the grape boycott for the United Farm Workers of America in Dorchester, Massachusetts. The decision would kick off a more than 50-year commitment to labor and the rights of workers.
Now the president of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO, a position he's held since 2009 after joining the organization in 1983, George Nee is the recipient of this year's Dante F. Mollo Labor United Award.
"When I think of what the Dante Mollo award represents - an individual who tirelessly fights for equal opportunity for all - there is no question it is George who embodies those traits," says Cortney Nicolato, United Way of Rhode Island's president and CEO. "His efforts throughout the years have made a difference for literally tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders and their families."
George's leadership of the Rhode Island labor community dates back to 1971. After the grape boycott proved successful, resulting in union contracts and improved conditions for farm workers, he came here to coordinate a lettuce boycott. Working alongside farm workers who spoke little English, George solidified the right to organize and the power of collective action as keys to allow hard-working people to take control of their economic futures.
A few years later, he organized a number of low-wage Rhode Island jewelry, clerical, and healthcare workers into a formidable group that would become the Service Employees International Union, Local 76. George would serve as its founding president from 1976 to 1983. The rest, as they say, is history.
"Working people have a right to have a voice everywhere decisions are made in Rhode Island and I've tried to dedicate my life to making sure people are treated in a just manner," says George. "This award means a lot because I knew Danny Mollo personally… he was a force of nature. Danny preceded 211, but he was his own 211. In fact, I know he would be proud and amazed at what United Way has done with 211. It's so valuable that people have a single place to call and can get assistance."
With the RI AFL-CIO, George has had a profound impact on the community through advocacy, volunteerism, philanthropy, and influencing policy changes that improved access to opportunities and education for workers. He is actively involved in economic development projects, and serves on the Rhode Island Convention Center Authority and the Human Resource Investment Council to name a few.
Under George's leadership, the RI AFL-CIO was the first partner to endorse our LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan.
United Way Invests $175,029 in Olneyville
United Way Invests $175,029 in Olneyville Programs that Lift Up At-Risk, Marginalized Communities
Providence, R.I. (September 20, 2021) United Way of Rhode Island has sent a total of $175,029 in grants to 12 nonprofits for their work to create long-term change in the Olneyville neighborhood of Providence they call home. The community investments were awarded from United Way’s special Olneyville Fund and focus on supporting the Lift United goals of its LIVE UNITED 2025 strategic plan to create opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.
“Olneyville has enjoyed an impressive transformation during the last decade, but I know all of us in this community recognize more must be done for families and this neighborhood to realize its full potential,” said Roshni Darnal, director of community investments for United Way. “From our first day here we committed to being a part of that change and could not be more enthusiastic about the innovative programs we have the opportunity to support to help change lives for the better.”
Among the grantees is the Olneyville Branch of Providence Community Library, which received $20,000 to expand its Community Onramps to BA Completion program – an effort run in partnership with College Unbound. In a neighborhood where just 10 percent of residents have a college degree (compared with, statewide, 48% of white adults, 32% Black, and 20% Latinx), the program provides an important step toward a post-secondary education for graduates of PCL’s successful GED courses.
Another funded organization is Project Weber/RENEW, whose work provides culturally-appropriate and sensitive case management supports for a range of at-risk populations, including HIV, queer and trans communities, and those who are justice involved. Its grant will fund the development of the Central Providence Expungement Clinic. The clinic aims to work with the R.I. Public Defender’s Office to remove eligible charges from individuals’ criminal records and resources to redirect lives, such as reinstating licenses and obtaining IDs and documents necessary for employment.
A full list of grantee organizations is as follows:
- Amenity Aid
- Button Hole
- Children’s Friend and Service
- Clinica Esperanza/Hope Clinic
- Farm Fresh RI
- FirstWorks
- Girls Rock! RI
- Inspiring Minds
- Project Weber/RENEW
- Olneyville Branch: Providence Community Library
- Reach Out and Read RI
- YWCA Rhode Island
United Way established the Olneyville Community Fund in 2008 when it relocated to the neighborhood from the city’s East Side. Since, it has used the fund to invest more than $1.2 million to improve services for residents, increase the capacity of community-based organizations, and enhance public spaces.
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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. 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 Twitter.
2021 Summer Learning Initiative Recap
A year after COVID-19 turned summer learning programs upside down, youth in five communities reveled in a full return to engaging, in-person activities this summer - with recommended safety guidelines in place and the support of dozens of partners.
These programs were part of United Way of Rhode Island's Summer Learning Initiative (SLI) which provides high-quality, high-impact opportunities for students to explore new topics and ideas all summer. SLI is funded by the donations of thousands of Rhode Islanders to the Community Impact Fund with additional support from Hasbro and Women United.
"It was awesome to see these kids make up for lost time being around their peers and get excited about the different projects they took on," said Kevin Lamoureux, one of the educational coordinators for the program run out of Hamlet Middle School.
Throughout the state, students who ranged from rising first graders to high school juniors spent six weeks sharpening their social-emotional skills, tackling service projects to address community needs, and preparing their minds for a return to the classroom.
It was exactly what kids needed after 14+ months of academic uncertainty and distance learning. In the face of the trauma of a global pandemic, friends reconnected with friends and kids were able to be kids - with academics seamlessly embedded into their daily activities.
In Cranston, elementary-age students couldn't wait to see what surprises their program partners had in store, like Roger Williams Park Zoo, Ocean State Kidz Club, and Global Science Envirotech to name a few. Science lessons in the form of weekly trips to Stillhouse Cove were highly anticipated, with kids learning about water pollution and wildlife protection. They'd regularly test the water for its pH and oxygen levels, explore for bugs and crabs, and play "Bird Bingo." And on the program's final day, students hosted a Science Showcase to highlight their efforts.
Nearby, at Park View Middle School, high school students spent time this summer building remote operated vehicles using 3-D printed materials and testing circuit experiments.
"You've got to be really precise with what you do," said Andy Wu, an incoming sophomore at Cranston East High School, when he spoke to the Cranston Herald during the paper's visit to the program in August.
STEM-focused lessons and projects weren't the only hits among this summer's participants. In fact, a major component of the SLI - service learning projects driven by youth choice - stole the show in each community (Central Falls, Cranston, Newport, Westerly, and Woonsocket) where it had a presence.
There were students who made pet toys to donate to their local animal shelter, and kids who volunteered to paint the picnic tables at their school in hopes it would encourage people to use them more. Others, like a group in Westerly, helped expand a community garden. And in Newport, a kid-run lemonade stand doubled as a fundraiser for a local nonprofit that brings birthday parties to hospitalized children.
"The model of this program, which is built around funding a lead partner who engages other community organizations and benefits from extensive support from United Way, has proven successful on so many levels," said Marlene Guay, our program officer for child development and education initiatives. "What we need to do next is ensure every single Rhode Island student who wants to participate has that access."
Women United Invests $124K in OSTL
United Way’s Women United Group Awards $124,000 in Grants to Expand Out-of-School Learning for Underserved BIPOC Youth
Camp RYSE, Mount Hope Learning Center, and The Grace School at Meeting Street receive funding
Providence, R.I. (July 28, 2021) United Way of Rhode Island’s Women United group has awarded a total of $124,000 in grants to three local organizations in support of increasing access to experiential learning for underserved K-3 students and to expand out-of-school time programs for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) youth. The organizations to receive funding are Camp RYSE, Mount Hope Learning Center, and The Grace School at Meeting Street. Grants ranged from $34,325 to $50,000.
“The past year has both highlighted and exacerbated the stark inequities that exist for our underserved and BIPOC communities, particularly with regard to educational opportunities,” said Margaret Lamb, chair of Women United’s executive committee. “We know the impact out-of-school learning has on student achievement and growth, and we know these programs are needed now more than ever in the face of disruptions caused by the pandemic.”
An all-volunteer group, Women United is an initiative of United Way of Rhode Island whose mission is to ensure that every child in every Rhode Island neighborhood has equitable opportunities to learn and read. The group is more than 175 members strong, representing every county in the state. Since 2011, the women have donated more than $5.3 million to United Way of Rhode Island and made grants totaling more than $1 million to support childhood literacy and out of-school learning programs.
At Camp RYSE, the grant is helping the organization enhance the curriculum of its multi-week summer learning program for more than 100 refugee youth with a focus on experiential learning. And as the refugee community has been disproportionately affected by the pandemic and civil unrest of the past year, the funding is also supporting expansive trainings for camp staff on mental health, restorative justice, and social change.
“Camp RYSE serves youth who are disproportionately lower income, 100 percent non-white, and who have fled from their homes in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Syria, The Gambia, and numerous other countries facing humanitarian catastrophe,” said Samy Amkieh, Director of Finance at Camp RYSE. “The return of Camp RYSE after a year shuttered by the COVID-19 pandemic signals a resilient refugee community in the state, with the Women United grant providing the baseline for a full return to summer-based learning!”
Serving youth in which more than 75 percent identify as low-income, the Mount Hope Learning Center’s out-of-school time learning programs have proven successful in improving student achievement and growth. While distance learning worked in some communities, it is known that metro area students experienced increased barriers to their education, including with technology and non-engagement. Right now, the center is expanding to reach more families in its community to remediate learning loss and emphasize a learning environment that is inclusive and open.
For The Grace School at Meeting Street, its Women United grant will support the ‘Closing the Gap’ program, which was created to mitigate the learning gaps that exist between K-3 BIPOC learners in Providence and their more affluent peers. Modeled after Meeting Street’s successful Olneyville Summer Kindergarten Readiness program, the effort identifies each child’s grade-level deficiencies and implements an individualized curriculum to bring students to grade-level standards.
“We are at danger of having a generation of children at educational disadvantage due to isolation and a public health necessitated lack of individual attention,” said Cortney Nicolato, president and CEO of United Way. “Fortunately, we have advocates and organizations that recognize the longterm implications of these disparities and are doing tremendous work to meet kids – and their families – where they are and support their ability to thrive.”
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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. 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 Twitter.
Uber, R.I., and 211 Partner for Vaccine Rides
Gov. McKee Announces Partnership with Uber and United Way 2-1-1 to Provide 10,000 Free Rides to all R.I. Vaccine Sites
Uber donating transportation to help the most vulnerable Rhode Islanders get to and from local COVID-19 vaccine sites
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (June 14, 2021) – Governor Dan McKee today announced that Uber has partnered with United Way of Rhode Island to help ensure eligible Rhode Islanders can access the COVID-19 vaccine. The partnership supports the State’s goal to as many Rhode Islanders as possible by the end of summer by providing free rides to all Rhode Island vaccine sites for those with limited access to transportation.
The donation is a combination of promotional codes, which can be entered directly into the Uber app, and through Uber Health, a scheduling platform for individuals without a smartphone or access to the Uber app. Rhode Islanders can use the transportation options to travel to and from appointments scheduled at any vaccine site across the state.
By calling 2-1-1, Rhode Islanders in need of transportation to receive their vaccine will be connected to the free rides. A United Way 2-1-1 specialist will provide a promotional code for the caller to enter directly into their Uber app, good for four trips (two round trips) or two trips (one round trip) to and from a vaccine site. For individuals with limited access to technology, United Way 2-1-1 specialists will provide a “concierge” service, arranging and scheduling the caller’s rides to and from a vaccine site on their behalf.
United Way of Rhode Island’s 2-1-1 help center, available 24/7 and in more than 100 languages, has been on the frontline of the state’s response to COVID-19 since the pandemic began. Along with handling more than 150,000 calls for information and referrals related to testing, health concerns, quarantine, and assistance with basic needs like food, shelter and utilities, 2-1-1 has helped tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders register for their vaccine.
“Rhode Island is focused on making vaccinations as accessible as possible to all residents and visitors,” said Governor Dan McKee. We aim to utilize every approach at our disposal to bring vaccines physically to where people are. And, in this case, to reduce any barriers to traveling to a vaccine clinic. This partnership with The United Way and Uber is exactly the type of innovative collaboration that will help the State reach our vaccination goals to keep everyone health and safe and our economy fully open.”
Added Larry Warner, MPH, chief impact & equity officer at United Way and a member of Rhode Island’s COVID-19 Vaccine Subcommittee, “We want everyone to be able to get the vaccine regardless of their access to transportation. 2-1-1 plays such an important role in our state and is a perfect fit for this partnership. We’re excited to work with Uber and the Governor’s office to offer this service to our fellow Rhode Islanders.”
“We are proud to partner with Governor McKee and United Way of Rhode Island to support vulnerable populations across the Ocean State,” said Hayley Prim, policy manager for Uber. “This partnership is a milestone in our larger commitment to provide ten million free or discounted rides to those in need across the world to ensure transportation is not a barrier to accessing the COVID-19 vaccine.”
Individuals across Rhode Island should call 2-1-1 to schedule a vaccine appointment and to get connected with the no-cost transportation they need. Promotional codes and rides through Uber Health will remain valid through September 30, 2021.
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Media Contacts
Alana O'Hare | Office of Governor Dan McKee
Alana.OHare@governor.ri.gov
(401) 575-2505
Hayley Prim | Uber
prim@uber.com
(631) 902-5150
Michael Cerio | United Way of Rhode Island
Michael@CerioCommunications.com
(401) 743-8269
United Way Welcomes New Staff to Leadership Team
United Way Welcomes New Staff to Leadership Team
Robert Bush, Roshni Darnal, and Rob Hancock to play vital roles in delivering on organization’s LIVE UNITED 2025 plan to build racial equity in Rhode Island
Providence, R.I. (June 1, 2021) With sights set on achieving the goals outlined in its LIVE UNITED 2025 plan and a commitment to invest $100 million over the next 5 years to build racial equity in our state, United Way of Rhode Island has welcomed new staff to its leadership team.
Robert Bush has joined as Chief Operating Officer; Roshni Darnal has been named Director of Community Investment; and Rob Hancock is Sr. Director of Marketing and Communications.
“We are thrilled to have such talented individuals join the United Way family and our work to improve the lives of our neighbors and strengthen Rhode Island as a whole,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “There is both tremendous work and potential in front of us if we’re to create justice and opportunities for all, and Robert, Roshni and Rob are each deeply committed to making our state the best it can be.”
Robert Bush comes to United Way with more than 20-years of executive leadership experience across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Most recently, he served as the COO of Grads of Life, a Year Up subsidiary, where he led efforts to innovate, test and bring to life strategies to close the opportunity gap by reimagining the education and workforce systems. His work focuses on helping organizations adopt strategies that prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. Robert has also has worked as a senior leader for AmeriCorps VISTA in Washington, D.C., where he oversaw more than 1,200 community-based projects, and led two Feeding America food banks.
As Director of Community Investment, Roshni Darnal leads United Way’s investment work in Rhode Island community’s and managing its strategic direction to address the needs of Rhode Islanders through its grant-making processes. Roshni joined United Way in 2019 as Program Officer for Workforce Development and Economic Mobility. In this role, she helped to launch and lead special initiatives that include the Small Business Outreach and Sustainability mini-grants programs; United Way’s role in the Back to Work RI program; and co-managed the Olneyville Community Fund and its hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants disbursements. Prior to United Way, she was the Director of Senior Services for Federal Hill House. A resident of Providence, Roshni holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Johnson and Wales University.
Rob Hancock has joined United Way as Sr. Director of Marketing and Communications. He brings two decades of experience supporting mission-driven organizations through strategic marketing, communications, and community engagement initiatives grounded in equity and empowerment. He comes from Roger Williams University, where he led a transformation of the University’s content strategy with a focus on authentic digital storytelling and expanding content production in video,
photography, and social media. Rob was also a key contributor to RWU’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. He was an active member of the Equity Action Plan task force and a lead Equity Ambassador, advising search committees on running equitable hiring processes.
Prior to RWU, Rob was VP of Community Engagement at the Buzzards Bay Coalition. Rob holds a Masters in Environmental Science and Management from the University of Rhode Island and a Bachelor’s degree in Geology from Brown University. He and his family live in Bristol.
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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. 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 Twitter.
7 Leaders Selected for Second-Ever Nonprofit Innovation Lab
7 Leaders Selected for Second-Ever Nonprofit Innovation Lab
Fellows will spend the coming months developing and honing new solutions to pressing social issues, culminating in a “Shark Tank-like” presentation to secure funding to bring their ideas to life
Providence, R.I. (May 18, 2021) — United Way of Rhode Island and Social Enterprise Greenhouse (SEG) have selected leaders from 7 local organizations as fellows for the second iteration of their joint Nonprofit Innovation Lab. The unique social innovation program challenges organizations to develop new solutions to pressing social issues, and offers an opportunity to secure seed funding to bring those ideas to life.
Through the Nonprofit Innovation Lab, United Way and SEG seek to accelerate organizations’ ability to implement their creative ideas to build greater social impact. The program provides fellows with the coaching, knowledge, resources, and networking opportunities that help turn transformative ideas into reality. It culminates with a “Shark Tank-like” presentation where fellows compete for $90,000 in seed funding and other in-kind services and supports.
The fellows selected and their respective organizations are:
- Mario Gomez Anaya, Spectrum Theatre Ensemble
- Edward McPherson, Newport Mental Health
- Kelly Nevins, Women’s Fund of Rhode Island
- Brent Runyon, Providence Preservation Society
- Michelle Taylor, Community Care Alliance
- Joshua Wizer-Vecchi, Children’s Friend & Service
- Destenie Vital, What Cheer Flower Farm
“We are beyond thrilled to partner again with Social Enterprise Greenhouse and bring back the Nonprofit Innovation Lab,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “The times of today call for innovative ideas and solutions if we’re to make Rhode Island the best it can be, and innovation is absolutely where our state’s nonprofit community excels. And it’s our job to support and nurture that creativity.”
Among the projects selected for advancement include developing more sensory-friendly practices to better serve Neurodiverse audiences throughout the entertainment industry; building a self-sustaining insurance brokerage business with its profits supporting nonprofit operations; rehabilitating a nearly 3 acre Brownsfield site in Providence and transforming it into community space; and creating a social enterprise that hires its trainees to work on and restore old buildings and homes.
“It’s an honor to have the opportunity to work with this year’s cohort of fellows as they launch and grow
innovative projects to improve our communities and make them stronger,” said Kelly Ramirez, CEO of Social
Enterprise Greenhouse. “We’re incredibly grateful to United Way for their partnership and excited to again
recruit and engage some of the state’s best business and community leaders to support our fellows.”
The Nonprofit Innovation Lab begins this month with a 12-week virtual Boot Camp, followed by a 16-week accelerator stage. In the Boot Camp, fellows receive intensive instruction, refine a business plan and set goals. A $5,000 stipend is provided during the Boot Camp to support fellows’ time away from their organization and to cover expenses related to the early development of their concepts.
Throughout the program, each fellow is paired with a custom team of coaches and provided access to
hundreds of experts across the United Way and SEG communities. In November, the fellows who offer the
most compelling innovation plans will be invited to pitch for the prize funding.
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About Social Enterprise Greenhouse
Social Enterprise Greenhouse creates positive social and economic impact by providing social entrepreneurs and
enterprises with the tools and networks they need to thrive. It fosters an ecosystem of diverse stakeholders who work
to enable a more just, equitable and resilient economy. SEG operates statewide in Rhode Island from three
programming sites in Providence, Newport, and Pawtucket/Central Falls. Its network of 600+ social 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.
About United Way of Rhode Island
United Way of Rhode Island is uniting our community and resources to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders. 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 Twitter.
Testimonials
Meet some of our passionate supporters
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."
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."
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!"
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."
Staff members
Cortney Nicolato
Erin Desmarais
Natali Gomez
Kyle Bennett
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We are humbly grateful for the resounding financial and in-kind support that we receive from our institutional partners. Their outstanding generosity enables us to advance our shared goals for the betterment of our community.
