401Gives lets Rhode Islanders make a deeper impact on state's nonprofits: Commentary
We are just 10 days away from the return of 401Gives, Rhode Island's single largest day of giving in support of hundreds of organizations whose work touches everyone who calls the Ocean State home. Beyond the fact that it has raised $14 million for local nonprofits in its five years, I'd like you to consider the even deeper impact YOU have made by participating in 401Gives.
401Gives shines a spotlight on the incredible work of Rhode Island nonprofits and on the generosity of our community, all in one day. It provides visibility and a platform for organizations to tell their stories, and to engage with new donors in ways they might not do otherwise. And the dollars raised provide organizations the invaluable flexibility to address emerging, unexpected needs that other funding sources – such as grants or contracts – cannot cover.
Make no mistake, none of this would happen without the 16,557 Rhode Islanders who made more than 24,000 donations – last year alone – during 401Gives. This is power in numbers. Each gift, no matter the size, adds up to make a real difference. This is what it looks like when we stand united.
I've been in the nonprofit space for my entire career, and few things bother me more than when I hear Rhode Island called one of the least generous states in the country. For those of us who live here, we feel quite the opposite about a place where we're all so uniquely connected.
On April 1, we once again can demonstrate that few things are more powerful than Rhode Islanders helping Rhode Islanders.
Tiffany Reed is the chief development officer of the United Way of Rhode Island.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: 401Gives is a powerful day of giving in RI: Commentary
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