The nonprofit work we don't always see in RI: Commentary

Imagine visiting a Rhode Island beach and seeing hundreds of pounds of old fishing gear, ropes, trash and tangled debris strewn about as you walk the shoreline. It would be hard to miss, but ideally, it’s a sight most of us will never see.

Unfortunately, most of us also never see the volunteers with organizations like Coastodians who make sure that our beaches are clean and welcoming. We may not realize how much time and effort it took to give us a safe and refreshing place to stroll and play.

All too often, we see the end result and don't see the nonprofits and people who made it possible.

A child gets a meal after school. An older Rhode Islander is able to remain safely in their home as they age. A young adult lands their first job. A family falls in love with a new pet. Manicured hiking trails and community gardens offer solace and peace outdoors. I could go on and on.

Much of the work happens quietly, with limited funding and little recognition. And it happens because people who have families, responsibilities and concerns of their own know their community needs them. That responsibility looks different for everyone, but the motivation is often the same: wanting to do something to help others and to make our communities stronger.

It might be the individual who drives a senior to a medical appointment after a long day of work. The person finishing a grant proposal at night to fund sports equipment and uniforms for underserved youth. Or a medical provider who volunteers their expertise to ensure wellness checks for those who might otherwise go without.

This is what makes the work of organizations like Coastodians and others across our state so meaningful. Most Rhode Island nonprofits are not large – more than two-thirds have no paid staff at all. Their dedication and long hours rarely result in headlines or fanfare. But nonprofits step up and into places where things need to be done and, often with very little, find a way to do it.

Rhode Island’s nonprofits make our lives better every day. But too often we overlook the people and organizations who make the Ocean State such a great place to live. So, maybe, the best thing we can do is pay a little more attention and bring a little more recognition to these unsung heroes.

As we approach Nonprofit Appreciation Month in November, let's celebrate the nonprofits and volunteers that are often unseen or underappreciated. Let them know how grateful you are for the work they do, make a financial gift if you're able to, and make the effort to join them the next time they work their transformational magic on your favorite beach, or bring a smile to your favorite child or senior.