ADVOCATE
For those ready to take action now
WHAT'S YOUR PASSION?
Here are simple things you can do today to help build racial equity and opportunities for all Rhode Islanders.
Check back for more ways you can help. Or simply sign up at the bottom of this page to receive our e-news.
Advocate for Rhode Island state support for 211
United Way of Rhode Island had applied for $500,000 in federal funding for 211 for 2025, but was not able to secure the earmark. Since the federal funding was denied, United Way is asking for Rhode Island state support.
211 is a free and confidential helpline service maintained by United Way of Rhode Island. Rhode Islanders call 2-1-1 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, in nearly 200 languages, to be connected to the statewide network of social services.
This funding will support general operations including staffing, technology, and overhead.
Rhode Island needs more people to advocate for issues they’re passionate about. Are you ready to become an advocate?
Five Questions With: Roshni Darnal
Providence Business News
Roshni Darnal is the director of community investments for United Way of Rhode Island... where she manages the organization's strategic direction to address the needs of Rhode Islanders through its grantmaking processes… Darnal spoke with Providence Business News about those grantmaking changes and what it means for the nonprofit community moving forward.
FCARI: Prescription Delivery Services for Seniors
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 89% of adults 65 and older take prescription medicine. For seniors who have mobility issues or are unable to leave their homes to go to the pharmacy, using a prescription delivery service is a simple solution.
This resource provides seniors and their caregivers with the top prescription delivery services, information on financial assistance options, and guidance on choosing the best service for their specific needs. Learn more at: www.caring.com/best-prescription-delivery-services/
PBN announces 2023 Best Places to Work honorees
Providence Business News
Sixty-seven honorees, including United Way of Rhode Island, have been named by Providence Business News for its 2023 Best Places to Work Awards program... The honorees will be recognized June 7 for their efforts in a ceremony at Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick in Warwick, where the company rankings in each category will be announced.
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.
United Way Selects Leaders for Executive Director Learning Circle
Laser-focused on its work to support the needs of the state’s nonprofit community… United Way of Rhode Island has kicked off its latest Executive Director Learning Circle. The organization has selected 11 local nonprofit leaders to participate in the yearlong program that focuses on strategic development and increasing their organizations’ capacity to deliver their social impact work.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Children’s Book Drive 2024
April 1 - May 29
Various Locations
United Way of Rhode Island's Children's Book Drive is returning for its twelfth year. In April and May, United Way is once again partnering with Books Are Wings to help Rhode Island children build their own libraries at home.
Rhode Islanders are invited to buy and ship books, drop off new and gently used books at a community collection site, or host a drive with their family, friends, or coworkers.
For more information, view our Children's Book Drive 2024 Frequently Asked Questions.
Day of Action
June 8, 2024
9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Join us at United Way of Rhode Island to sort and label donated children's books!
50 Valley Street, Providence, RI 02909
Morning shift | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Afternoon shift | 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.
United Way LIVE UNITED t-shirts and refreshments will be provided.
Equity Challenge 2024
June 19 - 27, 2024
Over the course of 7 days, employees throughout the state of Rhode Island will have the opportunity to participate in various activities, each designed to broaden perspectives and inspire meaningful conversations while demonstrating an individual and/or organizational commitment to equity.
Registration link coming soon.
Annual Celebration 2024
Save the date!
Thursday, October 10
6 - 8 p.m.
Waterfire Arts Center
475 Valley St., Providence