When working people thrive, Rhode Island thrives.
A Legacy of Solidarity
United Way of Rhode Island and our state’s labor unions are proud to launch the George Nee Labor Solidarity Fund. Named in honor of George Nee, longtime president of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO and tireless champion of working people, this fund carries forward his vision of a Rhode Island where unions are united, strong, and always there for one another. This first-of-its-kind initiative will provide direct relief to union members facing financial hardship and invest in nonprofits that strengthen the labor community. Grants and direct support for families will be available beginning spring 2026.
What the Fund Supports
Union Members & Families: Emergency relief during times of hardship or strike — modeled after trusted programs workers already know.
Labor-Affiliated Nonprofits: Annual mini-grants to organizations that train, protect, and uplift union families.
Community Infrastructure: Support for United Way of Rhode Island efforts that connect union households to resources and strengthen solidarity statewide.
Guided by Labor, Built on Trust
- A Labor Advisory Committee advises the fund’s priorities.
- Confidential, worker-friendly applications ensure quick relief.
- Full transparency with impact updates, stories, and recognition shared back with union members.
Why Support?
This fund shows what labor has always stood for: standing together when it matters most.
- Relief for members in times of crisis.
- Resources for nonprofits dedicated to union families.
- Public proof that Rhode Island unions are leading with strength and solidarity
Sponsorship Opportunities
Lead Supporter – $25,000
Support 20 union families in crisis
Recognition on social media, e-newsletter, and website
- Two seats on the Labor Fund Advisory Committee
- Invitation to annual leadership meeting
- 4X complimentary memberships to Emerging Leaders and/or Women United Impact Groups
- Plus all benefits included in the Champion of Labor, Solidarity Leader, Union Ally, and Working Together sponsorship
Champion of Labor - $10,000
Provide a mini-grant for a nonprofit supporting labor families
- One seat on the Labor Fund Advisory Committee
- Spotlight feature on United Way of Rhode Island social media channels
- 2X complimentary memberships to Emerging Leaders and/or Women United Impact Groups Recognition at labor events Plus all benefits included in the Solidarity Leader, Union Ally, and Working Together sponsorship
Solidarity Leader - $5,000 Support
5 union families in crisis
- Featured union profile
- Logo inclusion on webpage
- Includes all benefits of the Union Ally and Working Together levels
Union Ally - $2,500
Support 2 union families in crisis
Listed as a supporting sponsor Recognition in reports and events Includes all benefits of the Working Together level
Working Together - $1,000
Help support a family in crisis or contribute to community resources
- Certificate of partnership
- Digital badge for use in member communications
- Recognition on the George Nee Labor Solidarity Fund webpage
All sponsors receive fund impact updates and storytelling content to share with members.
Take Action Today
Make an individual gift. Advocate for your local chapter to be a founding sponsor. Show Rhode Island that labor stands united for its members
Contact
Travis Escobar
Director of Business Development & Labor Relations Travis.Escobar@unitedwayri.org
United Way of Rhode Island
50 Valley Street Providence, RI 02909
(401) 444-0600
unitedwayri.org
“In Solidarity, We Rise.”
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UPCOMING EVENTS
