Providence, R.I. – United Way of Rhode Island marked its 100‑year anniversary on Saturday with a festive evening at WaterFire Providence. The nonprofit, headquartered in the state capital and active throughout Rhode Island, partnered with the iconic waterfront event to highlight a century of community‑building and anti‑poverty work.
Community partners gather under the flames
Starting at 4 p.m., the WaterFire torches were lit as the sun set, creating a glowing backdrop for dozens of tents representing United Way’s partner agencies. Kate Bramson, chair of the WaterFire board of directors, praised the collaboration, saying, “We’re honored, privileged, and we appreciate that United Way recognizes WaterFire as a place and an institution that will partner with them to help celebrate.”
Bramson explained that the tents were staffed by local charities, faith‑based groups and service organizations invited by United Way. The joint arrangement gave each organization a platform to showcase its mission while offering Providence residents a chance to connect with the many ways the nonprofit network supports families, seniors and youth across the state.
Live entertainment and shared purpose
The evening’s entertainment was a joint effort between United Way and another local cultural group, delivering a mix of live music that reflected Rhode Island’s diverse artistic scene. Attendees enjoyed performances while strolling among the illuminated fire pits, reinforcing the message that community celebration and service go hand in hand.
“This celebration is more than a party,” said a United Way spokesperson. “It’s a reminder that when we come together—whether through a nonprofit partnership or a shared cultural experience—we strengthen the fabric of our neighborhoods and uphold the values that have guided us for a hundred years.”
Looking ahead
As United Way of Rhode Island looks to the next century, leaders emphasized a continued focus on addressing inequity, expanding educational opportunities and supporting families in need. The partnership with WaterFire underscores a broader strategy of leveraging high‑visibility community events to raise awareness and inspire volunteerism.
Local residents left the waterfront with a renewed sense of pride in both the historic legacy of United Way and the vibrant cultural life that WaterFire represents. The celebration served as a vivid illustration of how nonprofit collaboration and public art can together illuminate a path toward a stronger, more united Rhode Island.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
