Mission
To equip early to mid-career professionals with the resources, experience, and networks to make meaningful change in communities across RI and become the next generation of philanthropic and community leaders.
Start making an impact today.
Emerging Leaders (EL) provides the avenue for early to mid-career professionals to take action and learn how to most effectively give back with their time, talent and resources to make the greatest difference in your community. At exclusive mixers, members CONNECT with other entrepreneurs, business people and executives who share a common goal: to make an impact. Membership creates opportunities to SERVE at volunteer projects and agency tours. By becoming a member of this select group, you will LEAD the way for others to become inspired about all the good United Way of RI does in the community.
Emerging Leaders Membership
You are invited to attend a complimentary EL event. After getting to know our members and mission, we hope that you will become an official member with a minimum $250 annual donation to United Way of Rhode Island. Donations can be accepted through payroll deductions (for United Way affiliated companies), debited from your bank account monthly, or by making a one-time donation. You will become a steward of the community while expanding your professional network and taking the next critical step in your career.
Three ways to make a difference with your EL membership:
Leader for Change | $750 annually
Take a leadership role in supporting communities across the Ocean State through a network of committed young professionals, impact-focused professional development, and volunteer service. Receive invitations to select events with Leadership Circle, Women United, Tocqueville Society, and UW Board members.
Your membership gift alone changes lives by providing critical support like a wheelchair, hospital bed, and lift for a traumatic brain injury patient. And that’s just the start of what you can do in EL.
Community Champion | $500 annually
Help transform communities through networking and collaboration with other emerging leaders, professional development, and volunteer service, and receive an invitation to an exclusive event with the UWRI Board and CEO.
Your membership gift alone provides diapers for 120 families with children in need, taking one critical burden off the shoulders of busy parents.
Equity Advocate | $250 annually
Help build a more equitable Rhode Island through a network of like-minded young professionals, unique professional development opportunities, and volunteer service.
Your membership gift alone provides hygiene kits for 104 people experiencing homelessness this year, when resources have never been more needed
If you already donate $250 or more to United Way through your workplace and would like to connect your contribution to an EL membership, click here.
For more information about Emerging Leaders, email Juniper Darrow.
Bennett Named Chief of Staff & Public Affairs Officer
GoLocalProv
Kyle Bennett, who has long been at the forefront of United Way of Rhode Island's legislative and policy work, has been promoted to the organization's Chief of Staff & Public Affairs Officer. Most recently, he served as senior director of public policy and equity, and joined United Way in 2006.
Grantmakers Council of R.I. names Bourns new executive director
PBN
Courtney Bourns, who has served as a strategy and program consultant for multiple foundations across the country for the last six years, has been named the new executive director for the Grantmakers Council of Rhode Island, the financial support nonprofit announced Tuesday.
Americans turn to 211 helpline amid mounting economic hardships
CBS News
The Wall Street Journal reports Americans are turning to social services helpline 211 in economic emergencies. Rachel Wolfe, consumer trends reporter for The Wall Street Journal, joins CBS News to discuss.
United Way Hosting Equity Challenge
As part of United Way of Rhode Island’s ongoing commitment to and demonstration of diversity, equity, and inclusion, the organization is preparing to host its 2024 Equity Challenge. All Rhode Islanders, individuals, and families, as well as local businesses, organizations, and groups are invited to participate in the challenge, which is being offered at no […]
United Way Accepting Applications for Providence Equity Fund
In collaboration with the City of Providence and aligned with its mission to build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders, United Way has issued a request for proposal (RFP) for the Providence Equity Fund grant program. Available funding is to support strategies that promote racial and social equity, economic mobility, and educational opportunities for underserved populations in Providence.
United Way Hosts 12th Children’s Book Drive
United Way of Rhode Island’s Children’s Book Drive is back! In April and May, we’re teaming up with Books Are Wings to help Rhode Island children build their own libraries at home. Join us by buying and shipping books, dropping off books at one of our collection sites, or hosting a drive.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Annual Celebration 2024
Save the date!
Thursday, October 10
6 - 8 p.m.
Waterfire Arts Center
475 Valley St., Providence