RI's nonprofits do more than serve, they empower: Commentary

As important as their programs are, nonprofits do far more than provide services. At their core, they empower people to live independently, participate in their community, and rebuild confidence in themselves.

Rhode Island is home to many of these organizations – nonprofits that change lives every day, not only for the individuals they serve, but also for families, neighbors, employers and entire communities. Through the Ocean State Center for Independent Living, I have seen that impact personally, professionally and through the experience of friends.

As a parent, I experienced it firsthand with my son after he was diagnosed with autism. We were told Alex might never speak or read. At one point, he became increasingly withdrawn and struggled to communicate. The guidance we received from OSCIL began to change that.

They encouraged us to introduce simple communication tools throughout our home — pictures, visual prompts and cue cards that allowed Alex to express himself and reconnect with the people around him. Over time, those seemingly small interventions created meaningful change.

Today, in his 20s, Alex enjoys daily activities at Westbay Community Action, participates in Special Olympics, and confidently interacts with the people whose photos once helped him learn how to communicate again.

But this work is about much more than a single family’s story. It is also about helping people of all ages and disabilities adapt their homes and remain there. The significance of this cannot be overstated, not when the alternative is a group home or being institutionalized, options that often cost two to three times more than adapting for accessibility.

For a neighbor with Parkinson’s, I saw the change OSCIL created through the installation of ramps and mobility bars, allowing her to better navigate her home. What appeared to be somewhat simple accommodations ultimately gave her the ability to stay in the place she loved most, preserving her independence for additional years.

Nonprofits like OSCIL do things that make huge, long-term differences for Rhode Islanders. Sometimes that support is visible – like a ramp or stair lift – and other times it is guidance, life skills encouragement or case management. But regardless of the shape it takes, it is with the goal of helping someone realize they are capable of more.

And when that is the mission, we and our communities are all better for it.

Cristina Amedeo is the senior director of community services at the United Way of Rhode Island.