Terms of Use
Terms of use last updated: December 29, 2020
Proprietary materials
All materials contained on this website are copyright ©2020 United Way of Rhode Island or are licensed or otherwise published by United Way of Rhode Island with the permission of the owner of the material. All rights in such materials are reserved to the respective owners.
The materials posted on this site may be retrieved and downloaded solely for not-for-profit or educational purposes ("Authorized Uses"), provided that such Authorized Uses do not include posting, publication, transmission, or dissemination of such materials in digital or electronic form by means of the World Wide Web, email, online services or any other medium now existing or hereafter developed, with the exception of 211 materials and the distribution materials posted in the campaign leader toolkit.
No materials contained on this website may otherwise be copied, modified, published, broadcast, or otherwise distributed without the prior written permission of United Way of Rhode Island. Any reproduction permitted under this User Agreement must contain the following notice: "Copyright ©2020 United Way of Rhode Island. All rights reserved."
The information contained on this website, or any other website owned, operated, licensed, or controlled by United Way of Rhode Island, as well as the design and layout of such websites, contains elements protected by trade dress, copyright, or other laws, and may not be copied or imitated in whole or in part. No text, logo, graphic, sound, or image from this website may be copied, except in connection with the Authorized Uses described above, or retransmitted without the express written permission of United Way of Rhode Island.
Warranties
UNITED WAY OF RHODE ISLAND MAKES NO WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS OF ANY KIND CONCERNING THE ACCURACY, SUITABILITY, OR SAFETY OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THIS WEB SITE OR ANY LINKED SITE FOR ANY PURPOSE. ALL SUCH INFORMATION IS PROVIDED "AS IS," AND WITH SPECIFIC DISCLAIMER OF ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TITLE, OR NON-INFRINGEMENT.
UNITED WAY OF RHODE ISLAND MAKES NO WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS OF ANY KIND THAT THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY THIS WEB SITE OR ANY LINKED SITE WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED, ERROR-FREE, OR THAT THE SITE OR THE SERVER THAT HOSTS THE SITE ARE FREE FROM VIRUSES OR OTHER FORMS OF HARMFUL COMPUTER CODE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL UNITED WAY OF RHODE ISLAND, ITS EMPLOYEES, ITS AGENTS, OR ANYONE ELSE WHO HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN THE CREATION, PRODUCTION, OR DELIVERY OF THESE PAGES, BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS SITE OR ANY LINKED SITE.
External links
Links to other websites do not imply an endorsement of the materials disseminated at those websites, nor does the existence of a link to another site imply that the organization or person publishing at that site endorses any of the materials at this site. Links to other websites are provided by United Way of Rhode Island as a convenience to its users. United Way of Rhode Island is not responsible for the materials contained at any website linked to this site.
Interactive material
Portions of this site may allow users to post their own material. The materials posted by users do not necessarily reflect the views of United Way of Rhode Island. By posting materials to the United Way of Rhode Island website, you represent that you have all necessary rights in and to such materials, and that such materials will not infringe on any personal or proprietary rights of any third parties, nor will such materials be harmful, defamatory, unlawful, threatening, obscene, lewd, lascivious, harassing, or otherwise objectionable.
Terms of use
United Way of Rhode Island reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to review, edit, or delete any material posted by users that United Way of Rhode Island for any reason whatsoever determines may be harmful, defamatory, unlawful, threatening, obscene, lewd, lascivious, harassing, potentially in violation of any party's rights, or otherwise objectionable.
NOTWITHSTANDING THE FOREGOING, UNIUTED WAY OF RHODE ISLAND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY MATERIAL COMMUNICATED BY THIRD PARTIES THROUGH THIS WEB SITE.
By posting materials to the United Way of Rhode Island website, you authorize United Way of Rhode Island to use, and authorize others to use, any such materials in any manner or medium.
You may not advertise or solicit on this website without United Way of Rhode Island's express permission.
User agreement
If you have any questions about this User Agreement, contact United Way of Rhode Island. If you do not agree with these terms of this User Agreement, you may not use the site. United Way of Rhode Island reserves the right to change this User Agreement at any time without notice.

Reflecting the Communities We Serve
At United Way of Rhode Island, we believe the people leading and guiding our work should reflect the diverse communities we serve. Over the past five years, we have been intentional about building a staff and board whose lived experiences, cultural backgrounds, and perspectives mirror those of Rhode Islanders across the state.
Today, nearly half of our board members identify as people of color, compared to 38% of Rhode Island’s population, ensuring that voices from historically underrepresented communities help shape our strategy, funding decisions, and advocacy priorities.
Our staff, too, represents a broad range of racial, ethnic, and cultural identities, bringing language skills, community knowledge, and professional expertise that make our work stronger and more inclusive.
This diversity matters. It helps us listen more deeply, partner more authentically, and ensure that equity is not just a goal, but a value reflected in every decision we make.
Why it matters: When leadership reflects the community, solutions are more inclusive, responsive, and effective.

Internally United
As we reflect on the last five years, it’s clear that the impact we create in the community depends on the strength of the organization behind it—which is why our own growth and evolution deserve to be part of this story. We have invested not only in our community but in ourselves—building a stronger, more inclusive, and more connected United Way. From embracing Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) values in everything we do, to strengthening our workplace culture, aligning staff and board leadership with the communities we serve, and modernizing how we work together, this internal transformation has made us a better partner to Rhode Island.
Living Our Values: JEDI Culture and a Best Place to Work
At United Way of Rhode Island, we believe that building a stronger, more just state starts within our own walls. Guided by the Live United 2025 plan, we have worked to create a workplace where Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) are not just ideals—they are everyday practices.
Our team reflects the communities we serve—multicultural, multidimensional, and deeply committed to equity. We focus on strengths-based leadership, ensuring every staff member can do what they do best, supported by professional development and a culture that values collaboration, respect, and shared purpose.
This focus on people and values is why employees have voted United Way one of the Best Places to Work in Rhode Island for six years. Staff consistently cite the combination of mission-driven work, community impact, and an inclusive environment as reasons why United Way is a place where they feel proud to work and grow.
Our JEDI commitment is woven through our strategic priorities, our internal culture, and the way we partner with the community. By living these values every day, we aim to model the kind of equity-centered leadership that drives lasting change across Rhode Island.
Why it matters: When we build an inclusive, mission-driven workplace, we attract and retain the talent needed to advance equity and strengthen communities statewide.
JEDI STAFF Testimonials
“I can personally attest to United Way’s commitment to equity. When life took a hard turn for me, the organization, and our leadership, demonstrated what it truly means to live our values, putting their words into action. They stood by me and made sure I had what I needed to fulfill my role, and to continue growing and thriving. This experience affirmed for me that our culture is not performative; it is authentic, lived, and practiced.”
Courtney Smith – Director of Innovation and Community Outreach, United Way of RI
“I couldn't have finished college without the team's support and the amazing mentors I had along the way… it is a breath of fresh air to see a team that regards themselves as family. As a first-generation college student, I am thankful that I get to share one of my biggest accomplishments with the people who believed in me and took a chance.”
Ana Mercado, Staff Accountant, Accounts Payable, United Way of RI

Equity Challenge: Building a Shared Language for Change
Achieving racial equity and social justice begins with learning—and a willingness to see the world through a different lens. That’s why United Way of Rhode Island launched the Equity Challenge, a statewide initiative designed to help individuals and organizations explore issues like implicit bias, privilege, systemic racism, and allyship through daily readings, videos, and reflection prompts.
Under Live United 2025, the Equity Challenge invited thousands of Rhode Islanders to commit to learning together, year after year. Each cycle brought new themes, updated content, and fresh opportunities for reflection—helping participants build a shared language and deeper understanding of what it takes to create a more equitable Rhode Island.
The Challenge also created a pathway for action. Many workplaces used it as a springboard for internal conversations, professional development, and policy changes. Others became United Way Equity Champions, signaling their commitment to advancing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in lasting ways.
One of the most important lessons from the Equity Challenge is that we are all works in progress. But progress comes from commitment—and United Way remains dedicated to creating spaces where learning leads to action, and action leads to change.
Why it matters: When we build a shared understanding of equity, we lay the foundation for a Rhode Island where everyone can thrive.
Local Leaders join United Way’s Community Advisory Board
Providence, R.I. (September 15, 2025) – United Way of Rhode Island has bolstered its Community Advisory Board, appointing two new members to serve on the volunteer leadership group. The advisory board is a diverse collection of industry leaders who come together to lend their expertise and unique experiences and insights to help United Way align […]
Rhode Island Launches 2025 State Employee Charitable Giving Campaign
More than 17,000 public servants invited to give back through annual campaign running through Thanksgiving
Signing of Minimum Wage Bill is a Win for Rhode Island Workers and a Step Forward for the Ocean State
Earlier today, Monday, August 4, United Way of Rhode Island had the honor and the privilege to be represented at the ceremonial signing of the legislation that increases Rhode Island’s minimum wage from $15 to $17 an hour by 2027,
UPCOMING EVENTS
Join the Family Caregiver Alliance of Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging, and United Way of Rhode Island at the 7th Annual Family Caregiver Alliance Conference
This year's theme is: "Together in Care: Stories, Strength, and Support"
This two-day event will be held on Friday, November 14 from 9:00 am to 12:30pm and Saturday, November from 9:00 am to 2:00pm in the RISD Washington Place Auditorium located at 20 Washington Street, Providence, RI 02903 - Free parking will be available for registered participants.
Whether you care for a loved one, support a friend, work in health or social services, or advocate for caregivers, this conference offers valuable resources and connection.
The event is free and open to all, but space is limited. Please register for the days you wish to attend.
Who Is a Family Caregiver?
Family caregivers are everywhere. The FCARI supports youth, grandparents, friends, or neighbors who step up to help someone they care about.
That includes those who:
-Support a loved one with a physical, intellectual, or developmental disability (ID/DD)
-Provide care for someone living with dementia, cancer, or another serious illness
-Help an older adult with daily tasks
-Care for a child or youth with complex needs
Links for registration:
Day One https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3136373734
Day Two: https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3136373832
September Speaker Series: Women United – Global to Local Impact – Sept. 19th
Celebrate the power of Women United—from global leadership to community action right here in Rhode Island. Join us virtually and hear inspiring stories of Women United’s influence, creative member engagement, and the tangible results of our Community Impact Fund—including the work of grant award recipients making a difference for families across Rhode Island.
📅 Date: Friday, September 19, 2025
⏰ Time: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. (EST)
📍 Location: Virtual (link provided upon registration)
🔗 Register Today: https://uwriweb.org/comm/SinglePageRegEvent.jsp?EventKeyHex=3136363030
Featured Speakers:
• Patrice Maloney-Knauff, Esq. – Women United Global Leadership Council, United Way of Lake County (IL)
• Jenny Holsman Tetreault – Chair, Women United Global Leadership Council, Vice President and Associate General Counsel of Litigation & Compliance TPI Composites, Inc.
• Carolyn Kennedy Chubb – Women United Executive Council Chair, United Way of Northern New Jersey
• Roshni Darnal - Director, Community Investments, United Way of Rhode Island