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More than two dozen nonprofits serving the state’s Black community will share $155,000 in grants from the Rhode Island Foundation through its Black Philanthropy Bannister Fund.    

“There is no more urgent time to lift up the work of organizations that are challenging the historic causes of inequity,” said David N. Cicilline, president and CEO. “In partnership with our donors, community leaders and nonprofit partners, we are reducing disparities and closing achievement gaps to ensure a more promising future for every Rhode Islander.”     

The Black Philanthropy Bannister Fund was established in 2007 to address the needs of the Black community. Over the years, nearly $1.6 million in grants and scholarships have been awarded.   

Rhode Island Slave History Medallions, the Bannister Grave Restoration Committee and the Nonviolence Institute are among the nonprofits that received grants.   

The Bannister Grave Restoration Committee received $15,000 to restore the grave monument of Edward M. Bannister, a pioneering Black painter and co- founder of the Providence Art Club, and abolitionist in Providence’s North Burial Ground. The work will include replacing the bronze medallions that were stolen in 2024.    

“The stone stands denuded and blank, giving no hint of the importance of the man buried beneath it. The stolen medallions were created by former RISD professor Mahler B. Ryder, a Black artist who made his home in Providence. By reinstating this cultural landmark, the initiative honors Rhode Island's artistic and historical legacy while fostering community engagement and racial equity in public memory,” said Ulli Ryder, who chairs the restoration committee.  

The Nonviolence Institute received $5,000 to provide stipend to participants in its SEED program, which engages at-risk youth through mentorship, education and personal growth. The goals are to reduce youth involvement in violence, promote healing and help participants envision productive futures.   

“SEED provides a structured, supportive environment where young people impacted by community violence can build essential life skills, strengthen emotional resilience and discover positive paths forward,” said Lisa Pina-Warren, executive director. “Providing a stipend is more than putting money in their pockets; it’s about meeting our young people where they are and showing them that choosing peace, showing up and doing the work to grow is seen, valued and supported."     

Rhode Island Slave History Medallions in Newport received $10,000 to fund interpretive exhibits, printed materials, workshop facilitation and outreach to schools and community partners coinciding the Juneteenth 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence at Fort Adams in June.   

“This event will transform Newport Harbor into a living classroom, offering Rhode Islanders a rare opportunity to explore the intertwined stories of freedom, resilience and justice that define our national heritage,’” said Charles Roberts, founder and executive director. “This investment ensures that access remains free and inclusive—particularly for underserved youth, families, and residents from historically marginalized backgrounds.”    

The other grant recipients are: 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Providence
City Year Rhode Island
Community Care Alliance 
DownCity Design 
Everett 
FirstWorks 
Fund for UCAP
Hope Scholars Initiative 
Inspiring Minds
Lit Arts RI 
Mini Entrepreneurs of RI
Mt. Hope Learning Center 
Partnership for Providence Parks
Providence Student Union 
Rhode Island Black Storytellers 
Rhode Islanders Sponsoring Education
Sophia Academy 
Center for Dynamic Learning 
Tides Family Services 
WattsNatural Tutoring 
Winner's Circle XR 
Women’s Refugee Care Youth In Action 

The Black Philanthropy Bannister Fund is one example of the Foundation's topic- and geography-specific grant programs, which also include the Newport County Fund, the Equity Action Fund and more. In 2025 alone, the Foundation awarded millions of dollars in grants supporting programs that serve historically underserved populations, including after-school programs, workforce development initiatives and efforts to address academic achievement gaps and health disparities.   

The fund also offers scholarships for students who are pursuing or advancing a career in health care in college or a technical school. Last year, the fund awarded $36,000 in aid. The deadline to apply for 2026 scholarship assistance is April 13.     

Members of the public can support the fund’s work by donating on-line  here or by contacting Millie Brown at mbrown@rifoundation.org.  

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Through civic leadership, fundraising and grant-making activities, together with neighbors and partners, the Foundation is helping to create progress that lasts.