What's Up Newport

Registration is open for the 2026 edition of 401Gives, Rhode Island’s largest statewide philanthropic initiative in support of local nonprofits, with organizers aiming to surpass $5 million raised this year.

More than 300 nonprofits have already signed up to participate in the event, which will kick off on Tuesday, March 31, and run until 6 p.m. on April 1. The start date was moved from the initiative’s traditional April 1 launch to honor Passover.

Nonprofits can register at 401Gives.org. The early bird registration rate ends Feb. 14, and the deadline to register is March 20.

“We know how challenging the current environment is for our fellow nonprofits as they wrestle to meet high community need while navigating constant funding uncertainties,” said Nancy Wolanski, director of the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact at United Way of Rhode Island. “Participating in 401Gives helps nonprofits tell their stories, highlight the impact of their work, and connect with Rhode Island donors who care about their cause. And we’ve seen that connection lead to meaningful and significant financial support.”

401Gives is powered by the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact and in partnership with United Way of Rhode Island. The initiative uses an online fundraising platform and harnesses social media and peer-to-peer outreach to connect nonprofits with donors.

After registering, nonprofits can customize their individual 401Gives page with images, video and more. Participants also have access to an online library of webinars and training videos, a nonprofit toolkit with sample emails, social media tips and downloadable graphics, and virtual office hours.

Since launching in 2020, 401Gives has grown into one of the state’s signature charitable events. In 2025, it raised $4.9 million and inspired more than 31,000 donations to 644 organizations.

For more information, email Caitlynn Douglas at 401Gives@unitedwayri.org.