Cortney Nicolato of United Way of Rhode Island on Leading with Data, Taking Political Risk, and Making Change Stick

·35 min·3 clips

United Way of Rhode Island met a $100 million racial equity commitment in four years instead of five under Courtney Nicolato's leadership.

Denver Frederick hosts Courtney Nicolato, CEO of United Way of Rhode Island, on The Business of Giving. Nicolato explains how the organization, approaching its 100th anniversary, focuses on forward-looking initiatives rather than past achievements. She returned to her home state after a national career to help communities that supported her as a latchkey kid in Pawtucket. Under her leadership, United Way launched Live United 2025, a $100 million racial equity commitment completed in four years instead of five. Key outcomes include the Rhode Island Reconnect program, which increased certification completion rates from 29% to over 89% by addressing social barriers like transportation and tattoos. Nicolato transformed United Way internally first, achieving 70% staff of color and a diverse board before external changes. The organization runs Rhode Island's 211 helpline, handling 214,000 annual contacts, providing real-time data used for policy advocacy with legislators like House Speaker Joseph Karchi on housing issues. She discusses the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact, supporting 500 nonprofits with technical assistance, and United Is The Way, an emergency response to federal funding cuts. Nicolato emphasizes trust-based philanthropy, unrestricted giving, and evolving workplace giving by engaging corporate partners year-round. She shares change management strategies to embed cultural shifts, ensuring changes outlast her tenure. The episode concludes with plans for the centennial celebration, including community events and a Waterfire festival in Providence.

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A clear look at how data, internal change, and advocacy can give philanthropy more influence in policy work.

United Way of Rhode Island's path toward its 100th anniversary gives the episode a practical leadership frame. Courtney Nicolato describes an organization that has met its $100 million racial equity commitment ahead of schedule, changed the makeup of its board and staff, and…

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Want to see how United Way of Rhode Island turns real-time community data into housing advocacy? Press play.

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