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The seeds of philanthropy were planted early for Rhode Island Foundation President and CEO David Cicilline. As a young student at St. Dunstan's Day School in Providence, he was deeply affected by a photo that appeared in the newspaper depicting the devastation that occurred after an earthquake in Nicaragua. That singular photo compelled David to organize a collection to help, setting the stage for what would go on to become a lifelong dedication to service, and demonstrating the power of giving to make a difference in people’s lives.  

"I grew up in a family whose parents instilled the values of service and helping your neighbors," David reflects. "While we didn't formally call it 'philanthropy,' our family naturally gave of their time and resources to help each other, our friends, and our community. It was simply part of who we were."

Building on those early lessons in service, David has now established the Cicilline Family Fund, a donor-advised fund at the Foundation. Through this type of fund, family members can also recommend grants to support causes they care about. While many families give to various organizations throughout the year, a donor-advised fund offers an organized, effective way to make impactful gifts, and a meaningful pathway to making lasting change.  

The Foundation's 109-year history brings unparalleled expertise and deep Rhode Island roots to the partnership, as well as an experienced, knowledgeable staff offering guidance, recommendations, and comprehensive understanding of need. "It's hard to know everything about every organization," explains David. "The Foundation’s team has extensive insight into nonprofits doing good work in the community."

When asked about his goals for the fund, David is focused on making a difference for those often overlooked by society. “I know the fund will grow over time to support the most forgotten members of the community – for those who need help the most, for those who have no other place to turn."

The process of establishing and maintaining his fund at the Foundation has also been straightforward and efficient. Explains David, "I’d like to emphasize how easy this is to do – it makes giving and philanthropy accessible. The endowment is so well-managed, and your opportunity to make an impact grows over time because of this expertise."

For David, this commitment to giving reflects his deepest values and beliefs. “Part of our responsibility as human beings on this earth is to take care of one another. It's part of my religious tradition of healing the world. It is incumbent on us to do as much as we can to help others, and philanthropy is the manifestation of that."