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“We have both been supporting lots of different organizations for a very long time,” says Michael Dupré of he and his partner Donald Occaso. “We do these little projects everywhere, sometimes off the beaten path.”  

Now they are planning to focus their philanthropy locally. Michael was a private chef for 45 years, taught adult cooking classes at RISD, owned and operated an inn in Newport; Donald is a retired dentist. They make their home in Jamestown where they support community projects. They are particularly fond of Out of the Box, a studio and gallery founded by one of Donald’s former patients. Its primary purpose is to integrate mentally handicapped artists into the creative community. About one of their recent openings, Donald says, “It was unbelievable. Places like this have a multiplier effect in the community—a real asset to the community.”

They, along with many other people, also supported the restoration of the beautiful 19th century Romanesque Belmont Chapel. Michael and Donald were fascinated with the project. The chapel was built in 1886, and over time, the building had seriously deteriorated. “Everyone thought it was a tear-down,” says Donald, but everything was restored, including magnificent stained-glass windows, and today it is used for cultural and historical events.

Their interests extend beyond the arts and historic preservation.  For instance, suicide prevention in Newport County is another issue they plan to support.

“My philanthropy started in the eighties with the Make A Wish Foundation—what a wonderful way to bring kids joy, to change someone’s life,” says Michael.  “That’s what we’re all about—we want to bring joy to everyone—at the Senior Center, the Community Center.” Donald adds, “The whole thing for us is community because that’s what makes life fun.  It’s an antidote to depression—whether young or old dealing with loneliness.”  

“As we get older, and think about our own demise,” Michael says, “we would like to have everything set up in one place, with guidelines and a sense of focus. We know that the Foundation is a great resource for things that people need.”

“I was taught that you feel good when you give, even more than when you get. It can be the smallest thing that makes a difference,” confirms Donald.