United Way’s 401Gives Day – Rhode Island’s Day of Philanthropy

Update on 5K Walk & Run

April 1^st is just nine days away, and spring is definitely in the air this week. Usually, at this time, we are in the depths of preparing for our 5K Walk & Run. Due to continuing COVID-19 safety precautions, the agency has decided to cancel the Walk again this year. While we’re hopeful that a new, better normal is on the horizon, the safety and wellbeing of our families, staff, donors, and friends are most important to us.

United Way Rhode Island (UWRI) 401Gives Day

There are, however, plenty of ways to support our mission to serve Rhode Island’s most vulnerable children. UWRI’s 401Gives Day on April 1^st is quickly approaching. This 24-hour online fundraising campaign brings Rhode Island nonprofits together in a collective voice for the community, deepening the state’s culture of giving.

Last year, in its inaugural event, UWRI raised over $1.3 million for 366 nonprofit organizations. This year, giving begins at 6 a.m. on April 1^st and ends at 6 a.m. on April 2^nd. This is a pivotal day for Children’s Friend and the nonprofit community.

Our children and families continue to feel the adverse effects of the pandemic in 2021. Food insecurity and housing issues are everyday concerns for so many of the families we serve. Perhaps you’ve received your stimulus check and are looking for a worthy way to invest in your community, or you usually support our Walk & Run and are looking for a way to stay involved? Donations to Children’s Friend of all sizes are needed and appreciated on April 1^st. Can we count on you?

Rhode Island Foundation Early Bird Match

Set your alarm clocks and join us EARLY on April 1^st. The first $50,000 donated online starting at 6:00 a.m. will be matched by the Rhode Island Foundation. The maximum match per donor per nonprofit is $500.00 for online donations only. Stay tuned for more matching and giving opportunities through email and social media. This is a great way to double your gift, just by setting your alarm and giving early!

Ways You Can Help  

Preview the Children’s Friend page at 401Gives.org and come back on April 1^st to make your gift. You can also support our efforts by forwarding our emails and sharing social media content to broaden our network: https://www.facebook.com/ChildrensFriendRI

Whatever you can do, please make sure to join this statewide movement of community investment on April 1^st. You don’t have to give a lot to make an impact.

On behalf of our children and families, thank you for all you do!

Stacy Couto, Chief of Philanthropy