Seasonal & Holidays
Charlestown Gives Back: How To Make A Difference This Season And Beyond
Discover meaningful ways to give back — from volunteering and donating to supporting community programs year-round.
Giving Tuesday is all about generosity — and some of the most meaningful giving happens right here at home. Celebrated the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday shifts the focus from finding deals to doing good. But there’s no reason to wait — or stop once the day has passed.
This year, Patch and T-Mobile are spotlighting organizations in the Charlestown area that are making a difference and helping others in need. These local groups are doing important work, and there are plenty of ways to support them — from donating and volunteering to spreading the word. This isn’t a complete list, but it’s a great place to start, so be sure to reach out to each organization directly to learn how you can help.
Southern Rhode Island Volunteers
The nonprofit Southern Rhode Island Volunteers (SRIV) supports older citizens and adults with disabilities by providing aging-in-place services, volunteer opportunities and activities that promote independent living. Serving 12 communities across southern Rhode Island, SRIV connects volunteers of all ages with meaningful service programs that help community members gain independence.
Learn more: southernrivol.org
Find out what's happening in Charlestownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Rhode Island Center Assisting Those In Need
The Rhode Island Center Assisting Those In Need (RICAN) is a nonprofit organization committed to ending food insecurity and providing essential support to neighbors in Washington County. Operating a supermarket-style food pantry in Charlestown, RICAN allows guests to choose their own groceries with dignity. The organization, powered by more than 100 volunteers, also offers clothing and resources to help families in crisis regain stability.
Learn more: rhodeislandcan.org
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Rhode Island
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Rhode Island supports South County families with free home repairs that help them remain under a safe roof. Run entirely by volunteers, the organization relies on donations to cover material, insurance and contractor costs, ensuring resources go directly toward helping those most in need.
Learn more: neighborshelpingneighborsri.org
Find out what's happening in Charlestownfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Cross' Mills Public Library
Cross’ Mills Public Library serves as a cultural and educational hub for Charlestown’s residents, offering programs and resources for all ages. From early literacy programs to cultural events and community outreach, the library’s impact reaches across generations. Continued support from donors and volunteers helps the library grow alongside the community it serves.
Learn more: crossmills.org/library
South County Habitat for Humanity
South County Habitat for Humanity helps families in Washington County regain strength and stability through affordable homeownership. Founded in 1990, the organization constructs and renovates homes with community support, volunteer labor and donated materials, providing community members a safe, decent place to live.
Learn more: southcountyhabitat.org
Charlestown Early Learning Center
Charlestown Early Learning Center is a nonprofit preschool offering high-quality, affordable education for children ages 3 to 5. Founded in 1981, CELC emphasizes learning through play, fostering curiosity, confidence and collaboration in a nurturing, inclusive environment that values strong partnerships between school and home. Those interested in contributing can purchase a commemorative brick for the new building, with all proceeds going to the school.
Learn more: charlestownearlylearning.org
The WARM Center
The WARM Center provides essential services across southern Rhode Island, helping individuals and families find steadier ground through housing, meals and outreach programs. With the support of volunteers and donors, WARM offers year-round shelter, daily meals and personalized case management that empower neighbors to move toward independence with dignity and hope.
Learn more: warmcenter.org
Smith & Agli's Potbelly Manor
Smith & Agli’s Potbelly Manor is a Rhode Island sanctuary devoted to rescuing and caring for potbelly pigs and other farm animals. Founded in 1995 after the rescue of an abused pig named Skipper, the organization provides lifelong refuge and animal-assisted therapy programs. Those interested in giving can donate funds or items, or join the volunteer team.
Learn more: potbellymanor.org
Give back in whatever way feels right for you — together, we can make an impact in Charlestown.
This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.
