2026 Funded Projects

In 2026, we are proud to invest more than $356,000 in 54 organizations across Rhode Island, each dedicated to elevating the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). These funded projects reflect our continued commitment to fostering inclusion, expanding opportunities, and strengthening the network of programs and services that support individuals and families in our community.

From innovative recreational and social programs to essential supports that promote independence and belonging, our grantees are making a meaningful impact every day—helping to build a more inclusive Rhode Island for all.

AccessPoint RI – Expanding access to inclusive community experiences, from arts to outdoor recreation, for individuals with I/DD.

The Arc Bristol County – Advancing independence through technology-enabled care and remote support solutions.

The Arc Rhode Island – Supporting families through special education advocacy and access to critical services.

Arts Alive! – Bringing inclusive theater programming to students with I/DD in schools and summer camps.

 

Audubon Society of Rhode Island – Creating accessible, nature-based learning experiences for individuals of all abilities.

 

Autism Included – Expanding inclusive summer recreation and educator training programs.

Autism Project – Enhancing inclusive camp experiences for individuals with autism.

Ballet RI – Offering adaptive dance programs in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Best Buddies of Mass/Rhode Island – Building inclusive friendships on college campuses across Rhode Island.

Bishop Hendricken Options Program – Supporting students with developmental disabilities through inclusive, life-skills education.

Blackstone Valley Prep – Preparing young adults with I/DD for employment and independent living.

The Bridge Builders of Diversity – Hosting inclusive social events for young adults with I/DD.


Camp JORI – Providing inclusive summer camp experiences for children with special needs.

Children’s Friend – Creating calming learning environments to support emotional regulation in children.


Common Fence Point – Offering leadership and skill-building opportunities through adaptive Zumba and Shark Tank programs.


Episcopal Conference Center – Providing inclusive overnight camp experiences for individuals with I/DD.

 

Family Service of RI – Supporting families through education and community inclusion programs.

The Fogarty Center – Providing inclusive wellness and enrichment programming.

Gateways to Change – Expanding access to therapeutic horseback riding programs.

Gnome Surf – Growing adaptive surf instruction through enhanced training and leadership development.


Greater Providence YMCA – Expanding inclusive programming through adaptive equipment and support services.

 

Groden Center – Supporting therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with I/DD.

James D. Rielly Foundation – Creating an inclusive holiday experience for children with special needs and their families.

James L. Maher Center – Delivering inclusive STEAM education for adults with I/DD.


L.I.F.E. Inc. – Offering inclusive, neurodiverse art workshops through community partnerships.

Living Innovations RI – Expanding access to assistive technology through a partnership with the Providence Public Library.

 

Looking Upwards – Building inclusive community connections and reducing barriers to participation.


Meeting Street – Enabling students with disabilities to participate in milestone school experiences.

Newport County Challenger – Providing inclusive athletic opportunities for individuals with disabilities.


Newport County YMCA – Expanding job training, internships, and life-skills programming.

Norman Bird Sanctuary – Enhancing accessibility through sensory tools and inclusive programming.

 

Ocean Community YMCA – Expanding inclusive programs for children, teens, and adults with I/DD.

Olean Center – Increasing access to community-based employment opportunities.

Outsider Collective – Supporting inclusive arts programming across performance and visual mediums.

Progress Works New England – Building entrepreneurship and job readiness for individuals with I/DD.

ReFocus – Expanding access and inclusion for adults with disabilities.

 

Revive the Roots – Connecting individuals with I/DD to nature and community-based programming.

Rhode Island Zoological Society – Enhancing inclusive camp and educational experiences at the zoo.

RI Parent Information Network (RIPIN) – Supporting military families raising children with developmental disabilities.

RI Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School – Empowering individuals with I/DD through music therapy and chorus programs.


RI Social Skills Academy (RISSA) – Expanding life skills programming through inclusive fitness initiatives.

 

RI Developmental Disabilities Council (RIDDC) – Supporting entrepreneurship through a small business incubator for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Sail To Prevail – Providing adaptive sailing experiences that build confidence and independence.

 

Salve Regina University – Fostering inclusion and lifelong learning for individuals with I/DD through the Learning Unlimited program.


The Sargent Center – Expanding inclusive enrichment programs in yoga, arts, and wellness.

 

Seven Hills Rhode Island – Delivering inclusive arts education for individuals with I/DD.

 

Shri – Expanding access to adaptive yoga and inclusive arts programming.

Smithfield YMCA – Creating sensory-friendly spaces to support children with diverse needs.

Special Olympics Rhode Island – Supporting statewide athletic competitions for individuals with I/DD.

 

St. Mary Academy – Bay View – Advancing inclusive academic opportunities for young women with I/DD.

 

Trinity Rep – Expanding sensory-friendly theater experiences and accessibility initiatives.


Trudeau Center – Increasing access to community experiences across Rhode Island.

University of Rhode Island Foundation – Delivering inclusive surf and ocean therapy programs.

YMCA Pawtucket – Expanding inclusive camp and swim programs for individuals with I/DD.