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COMMENTARY

‘Rhode Islanders have their nonprofits’ backs’: 401Gives breaks all records, leader says

Amid funding reductions and increasing demand for services, participation in the United Way’s sixth annual fundraiser for nonprofits is stronger than ever, writes CEO

Hundreds of people lined up in Pawtucket on a Saturday morning in September 2024 to get food and household items from the nonprofit Elisha Project. Volunteer Titi Guarina was moved that a driver gave her flowers after she placed food in their vehicle. John Tlumacki/Globe Staff

Dear Rhode Island,

Consider this my love letter to you — one filled with immense gratitude.

When I returned to Rhode Island in 2018 to lead United Way, I saw an opportunity to highlight the vital contributions of the nonprofit sector to our state. Nonprofits, which make up close to 17 percent of the Rhode Island workforce, are the backbone of all that is good here, providing essential services that enrich our lives.

Soon after beginning in my role, we started planning a movement to raise awareness and funds, while also celebrating what makes Rhode Island so very special — the spirit of our community. This movement became 401Gives.

Our first 401Gives was April 1, 2020, at a time of great uncertainty, just two weeks after the world shut down. But, true to Rhode Island’s spirit, our community stepped up. In that inaugural year, we raised over $1 million for hundreds of organizations—many thought it wouldn’t work, let alone be replicated. But again and again, Rhode Islanders proved them wrong, and in 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024, we collectively raised $13 million more for local nonprofits. That total of $14 million in just five years would not be in our communities without 401Gives and your belief in our sector.

In 2025, we find ourselves in a similar position to 2020, facing tough challenges like grant reductions and increased demand for services. It’s a “perfect storm” for Rhode Island nonprofits, with more cuts on the horizon. Yet, one thing is clear: Rhode Islanders have their nonprofits’ backs — just as our nonprofits are always there for us. To witness 401Gives grow stronger each year, especially in challenging times, has been incredible.

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On April 1st and 2nd this year, nearly 20,000 donors came together on 401Gives.org, raising more than $4.8 million for 644 nonprofits across the state — over $1 million more than last year. With great support from sponsors like Papitto Opportunity Connection, Rhode Island Energy, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Rhode Island Foundation, Centreville Bank, and Brown University, this year broke all records. It is a testament to the fact that Rhode Islanders are here to help one another.

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What brings me the most joy, however, is the opportunity 401Gives provides for us to unite — away from the noise of the world — for 36 hours filled with community, joy, and celebration. I witnessed nonprofits cheering each other on, creative organizations excelling in digital fundraising, and nonprofits surpassing their goals. I saw joy and laughter replacing fear and anxiety, and I saw hope shine brightly.

Thank you, Rhode Island, for showing that united is the way. You’ve reminded us that community means everything and that together, there is nothing we can’t overcome. You are the reason I am proud to be a Rhode Islander and to do this work every day.

As we head into our 100th anniversary, we are just getting started.

With gratitude,

Cortney Nicolato and all of us at United Way of Rhode Island

Cortney Nicolato is the president & CEO of United Way of Rhode Island

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