Providence, R.I. (October 24, 2025) – In a year marked by division and financial strain across the nonprofit sector, United Way of Rhode Island’s 99th Annual Celebration became a declaration of unity and a call to protect the institutions and individuals who form the backbone of community care.
Held on Thursday, October 23, the event gathered more than 450 Rhode Islanders at the WaterFire Arts Center in Providence to celebrate the tireless work of nonprofits, community partners, donors, and volunteers who continue to deliver essential services and drive systemic change. Throughout the evening, United Way reflected on a year defined by resilience and innovation, with the night culminating in the recognition of organizations and individuals whose contributions uplift local families and strengthen our communities.
“In a time when the need is great and resources are stretched thinner than ever, we are proving that even in difficult circumstances, collective action creates real change,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “Each and every day, nonprofits are doing extraordinary work amid extraordinary challenges. These organizations epitomize what it means to be united in action, to meet the moment, and to be steadfast in building a stronger, more equitable Rhode Island for all.”
Among the highlights shared were the launch of the Family Stability Initiative, which focuses on innovative ways to prevent families from falling into crisis and keep children from having to change schools; more than $24 million returned to working Rhode Islanders and the state’s economy thanks to the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program; and successfully advocating for $200 million in state investments in housing to ensure more people have access to safe, affordable homes.
Recognizing that it takes the work of many to influence and create lasting change, United Way presented a number of awards to local champions, recognizing the impact of their philanthropy, volunteerism, partnerships, and leadership.
Receiving the United Way Worldwide Leading Corporate Partner Award was FM. The company is United Way of Rhode Island’s oldest partner and one of its most generous donors, leveraging strategic leadership and deep employee engagement in addition to its philanthropic support.
Honored with a Community Impact Award were Centreville Bank and Rhode Island Energy. Centreville supports the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, 401Gives, United Way’s annual Book Drive, and its volunteer engagement includes eight projects a year. The leading partner in the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, Rhode Island Energy also boasts a robust workplace campaign and match that helps its philanthropy touch lives in every corner of the state.
The Community Champion Award was presented to three deserving partners, celebrating local companies that mobilize their employees to make a meaningful difference by giving of their time, talent, and treasure. The recipients were Dimeo Construction, Gilbane, and Teknor Apex.
Recognizing their leadership in sparking change, Point32Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan, received the Community Catalyst Award. Committed to leading by example, the foundation has provided crucial funding for The Alliance for Nonprofit Impact and the United We Vote initiative.
Brown University was honored with the Community Leadership Partner Award. The award recognizes the nonprofit educational institution for its partnership in advancing critical issues focused on housing, economic empowerment, and access to supports for Rhode Islanders.
Given to a member of the labor community in recognition of their unwavering service to community, the Dante F. Mollo Labor United Award was presented to Denise Robinson, president of International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers Local 400. As representative for hundreds of members at the RI Dept. of Transportation and RI Dept. of Environmental Management, Denise is a steadfast voice for her labor siblings for workers’ rights and pay equality.
Sandra Mazo, who serves as vice chair of Women United’s Global Leadership Council, was the recipient of the “Leading the Charge, Inspiring the Change” Women United Award. As the Deputy Director of Commerce for the City of Pawtucket, Sandra has been instrumental to strengthening the city’s social infrastructure and economy through her leadership of transformative community initiatives.
Presented for the first time was the Community United Award, honoring the collective impact needed to improve the wellbeing of Rhode Islanders and our local communities. The award was given to the Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner for its focus on equity and underserved populations, and its commitment to innovation through initiatives such as the RI Reconnect program.
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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.