Women's Fund of Rhode Island: Celebrating a Quarter Century of Advocating for Equity

​For 25 years, the Women's Fund of Rhode Island (WFRI) has been a driving force for gender equity in the state. What started as a fund established by the Rhode Island Foundation in 2001 has grown into an independent powerhouse of advocacy, research, and leadership development.
In a recent interview for our "Spotlight Interview" series, Kelly Nevins, CEO of WFRI, sat down to discuss the organization's mission, its upcoming milestone anniversary, and how it continues to shape the future for women and girls across the Ocean State.
Closing the Gap
"We have this little goal of achieving gender equity through systemic change," Nevins joked during the interview, acknowledging the magnitude of the task. "At the very base of it, we want to make sure that women are paid the same as men for doing the same types of jobs."
The organization's mission goes beyond just wage equality. WFRI works to close the gender wage, wealth, health, and power gaps through a multi-pronged approach involving research, advocacy, grant-making, and strategic partnerships.
Nevins emphasized that their work benefits everyone, not just women. "The work that we do doesn't just help women and girls, it really helps everyone," she explained, citing the expansion of paid family leave as a prime example. "You can be a man and benefit from that... caring for a seriously ill family member or welcoming a new child into the family."
Empowering Voices through Policy
One of the organization's standout initiatives is the Women's Policy Institute, a nine-month training program that demystifies the legislative process. The program teaches participants how to write legislation, find sponsors, and testify at the State House.
"Through this program... we really teach people how to be engaged in how things move in our state," said Nevins. Applications for the next cohort will open in the spring, with the class kicking off in late August.
WFRI is currently focused on several key legislative areas, including the Rhode Island Voter Rights Bill, accessible and affordable childcare, housing affordability, and public transportation improvements through RIPTA.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As WFRI approaches its 25th anniversary in 2026, the organization is gearing up for a year of celebration and action. Nevins highlighted several major initiatives:

• Rhode Island Girls Coalition: In partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation, Scouts, Girls on the Run, and other groups, WFRI is launching the state's first coalition dedicated to addressing issues facing girls, such as mental health and healthy relationships.
• Gubernatorial Debate: WFRI will partner with the League of Women Voters to host a debate for gubernatorial candidates.
• New Volunteer Committee: A new committee will launch to coordinate community service opportunities like food and clothing drives.
• "Men" at the Table: The organization has a committee of men called PACT (Partners Advancing Change Together), proving that feminism is a collaborative effort. They will be hosting a golf event in March to help teach women the sport, leveling the playing field in business networking.

Nevins, who has been with the organization for nearly a decade, remains passionate about the work. "We aim for a community where everyone has an equitable chance to thrive," she said.
For those interested in getting involved—whether through the Feminist Activist Book Club, policy advocacy, or attending upcoming events—visit wfri.org.