Driving policy and participation
Advocate united
WHAT WE'RE UP AGAINST
The data shows that systemic inequities are the root causes of intergenerational poverty among people of color. Despite our best efforts through broad support of our communities in need, our progress to date has been hampered by these systemic inequities.
That’s why equity, particularly racial equity, needs to be at the forefront of decisions in municipal, state and federal policy. Until we can make sure everyone has an equal shot at the starting line, our work will never reach its full potential. Moreover, investments in the most critical areas of need in Rhode Island, such as housing and education, have seen dramatic reductions over the years, rather than improvements in line with the demand.
57¢
is how much a Black household earns in Rhode Island for every dollar a white household earns
9X
is how much more likely it is for Black Rhode Islanders to be incarcerated compared to whites
22%
is the fraction Rhode Island invests in affordable housing compared to Massachusetts
WHAT WE'RE DOING TO DRIVE POLICY AND PARTICIPATION
Driving systemic change via public policy and research
United Way of Rhode Island will continue to fight for access to critical services, as well as advocate for equitable representation on state boards and commissions. Additionally, we are proud to support community and neighborhood mobilizing organizations that are focused on breaking the barriers to racial equity.
United Way of Rhode Island has long been the leader and early funder of organizations that are bringing innovative ideas to our state. We are expanding these efforts, as well as expanding tools to scale these important missions.
We will also expand our data and research efforts to be a state leader in analyzing and evangelizing data pertinent to our mission. This year we’ll be refining data collection systems and funding research to improve the ability to disaggregate data by race and income level.
Encouraging civic participation
United Way of Rhode Island is committed to creating spaces and support that help Rhode Islanders be the best community champions they can be. We are expanding existing programs like our Advocacy 101 empowerment program and creating new programs to inspire Rhode Islanders to vote, run for office and advocate for the platforms they are most passionate about. Our aim this year is to expand our Advocacy 101 training to be delivered in every city and town in Rhode Island. (Learn more about ways you can advocate today to support our mission.)
Reforming the criminal justice system
United Way of Rhode Island intends to work extensively to reduce the school-to-prison pipeline, as well as advocate for policies that help our neighbors get back on their feet during and after incarceration.
what our "ADVOCATE UNITED" goals are
+25%
participation in the 2025 presidential election
+50%
increase in the number of policies implemented that address equity and social justice
+50%
policy makers engaged in equity
HOW YOU CAN HELP DRIVE POLICY AND PARTICIPATION
Democracy is not a spectator sport. Join us.
Commit
Sign our equity pledge to join us in eliminating policies that disadvantage Rhode Islanders of color.
Advocate
Advocate alongside us or sign up for Advocacy 101.
Give
Support our work with a tax-deductible charitable contribution.
IN THE NEWS
15 Features Nonprofit Websites Should Have
Forbes Nonprofit Council
"With so many interactions taking place online, a solid website is a must-have for nonprofit organizations... To help you create a stand-out web presence, a panel of Forbes Nonprofit Council members, including United Way of Rhode Island's president and CEO Cortney Nicolato, share some features nonprofit websites must include to appeal to current and prospective members or supporters.”
401Gives helped local nonprofit stay open
WPRI 12
"401Gives... is held on April 1… This year, 401Gives is especially important since 2020 was a double hit for local nonprofits… with the pandemic collapsing their traditional fundraising opportunities, and… the need for their services increased. 'If we hadn't had 401Gives, we probably would not have made it through the year,' [Karen Dalton, founder of Dare to Dream Ranch] recalled."
401Gives hopes to raise $1.5M on April 1
Providence Business News
"The community will have another opportunity April 1 to offer their favorite nonprofits support. The second annual 401Gives... online campaign will go live that day... [Donors] can visit 401gives.org and send their donations to various charities and causes... Along with fundraising, United Way is also offering nonprofits digital training and networking opportunities to help the organizations benefit highly from... 401Gives."
UPCOMING EVENTS
Community Learning Partners, featuring New Urban Arts and Movement Education Outdoors
Join Women United on Thursday, April 22 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. to hear about after-school programs that foster creativity, problem-solving, and a growth in mindset in amazing spaces.
2021 Children Book Drive
From May 1 to May 31, United Way of Rhode Island, Women United, and Books Are Wings will collect books gently used and new books. You can run a book drive at your workplace, school, or with your friends and family. Books may be dropped off at Cardi's Furniture & Mattresses locations in West Warwick, RI, South Attleboro, MA, and Swansea, MA. For more information on running a book drive or drop-off locations, contact bookdrive@unitedwayri.org.
YLC The Night is Young
The Night is Young will look a little different this year but we are still raising funds for the community! Save the date for Young Leaders Circle's signature event on Saturday, May 22. at 7 p.m. to make a difference in the lives of Rhode Islanders.
Power of the Purse
Save the date for Women United's signature fundraising event to support their mission in actively furthering children’s literacy. Power of the Purse will be held on Saturday, June 12 at the Newport Beach House. More details to come. Stay tuned!